MIAMI -- New York Mets manager Terry Collins went to the organization's complex in Port St. Lucie, Florida, during Thursday's off day to light a fire underneath right-hander Rafael Montero. Apparently, Montero got the message even before Collins arrived.

For the first time since July 20, Montero appeared in a minor league rehab game. He tossed two scoreless innings, allowing one hit and striking out one, against the Gulf Coast League Cardinals.

Montero officially has been on the disabled list since late April with rotator cuff inflammation in his right shoulder. However, team doctors have been unable to detect anything that would inhibit Montero from pitching.

Collins went to Port St. Lucie during the Mets' off day to prod Montero to get back already, since the Mets particularly could use him as a spot starter to conserve innings of the young pitchers currently in the rotation.