PHOENIX -- Bobby Parnell is not expected to be ready for the start of the 2015 season, which spares Terry Collins a decision on whether to restore him to closer from Opening Day.

#39 RP

New York Mets

2014 STATS

GM 1

W0

L0

BB1

K1

ERA 9.00

Sandy Alderson said Parnell is currently throwing on flat ground at 120 feet as he works back from Tommy John surgery, which was performed on April 8. The Mets expect Parnell to get on a mound for the first time since the procedure shortly after Christmas.

“Right now I think we’re projecting sometime after the season starts,” Alderson said about Parnell pitching in the majors. “But that’s just an educated guess right now.”

Parnell is currently working out at the Mets’ Port St. Lucie, Florida, complex with new strength and conditioning coordinator Mike Barwis.

Assuming Parnell opens the season on the DL, the Mets have five bullpen slots seemingly set for Opening Day: Jenrry Mejia, Jeurys Familia, Vic Black, Josh Edgin and Carlos Torres.

Alderson suggested a starting pitcher ranking somewhere in the No. 7 to No. 9 range on the depth chart -- a Rafael Montero type -- could fill another bullpen role.

The Mets aim to sign a second left-handed reliever to complement Edgin, although that may wait until late in the free-agency process, to see if any bargains emerge.

Alderson acknowledged a southpaw is desirable for the free-agent signing.

“That would be more of a need at this point than another right-hander,” the GM said.