MILWAUKEE — There was one surprise on the Mets' wild-card roster.
Max Kranik, who hasn't pitched in the major leagues this year and was drafted by the Mets in May, could pitch for the club for the first time in October.
The right-hander, who started the season as a starter at Triple-A Syracuse and pitched well as a reliever, is one of 26 active Mets players heading into Tuesday's series against the Brewers at American Family Field.
Not included in the best-of-three list is Tyler Megill, who pitched well in Monday's clincher in Atlanta and will likely be on the NLDS roster again if the Mets make it that far. Megill will miss playing against his younger brother, Brewers relief pitcher Trevor Megill.
Kranik was with the Atlanta Mets and appeared at the day's end celebration as an extra pitcher if needed. Cranik may be needed starting Tuesday, as the staff had to work 18 innings on Monday.
Kranik, who grew up in Jessup, Pennsylvania, as a Mets fan, was acquired by the Pirates in January and got off to a strong start in spring training before being hampered by a strained left hamstring.
He was sent to Syracuse, where he was DFA'd on May 6, cleared waivers and rejoined the organization as a multi-inning relief pitcher.
Since May 18, the 27-year-old has posted a 3.17 ERA with 51 strikeouts in 54 innings, with one out and eight outs.
Also on the roster, which had to be cut from 28 to 26 players, was Eddie Alvarez, who was ineligible for the postseason because he didn't start in September in the Mets organization, and Eddie Alvarez, who pitched well as a call-up player for the Mets. Joey Lucchese was also not included. The final game of Monday's doubleheader.
