Alvarez’s quick return to batting practice after the right-thumb tear keeps Mets fans hopeful for a late-season spark. He’s already taking BP and could begin a minor-league rehab by midweek, with a real shot to rejoin a lineup that would welcome his bat. Since recall, he’s slashed .323 in 21 games with 13 extra-base hits, four homers, and 13 RBIs, showing power and pace. If he returns swinging like before, the Mets will weigh how much catching time he can handle amid a crowded DH mix and lineup depth.