The Mets play their first game after making first round of spring training cuts last night. There were no surprises in the first round of cuts – most of the players are prospects who the Mets just wanted to get an extended look at. Everyone involved in roster battles are still in Mets camp as the Mets play their 15th official spring training game this afternoon.
The Mets are coming off of a loss against the Nationals last night and the outcome of the game might be the least important aspect of that game. Brett Baty continued his excellent spring going 2-2 at the plate and stealing a base. Vientos continued to make noise playing first base while going 3-4 with a double. Mauricio went 0-3 with a walk and stole a base. The Mets put all of their infield talent on the field last night and shined.
Three Things To Watch For Today:
- Nimmo’s Return: Brandon Nimmo is scheduled to finally play in a spring training game today! Nimmo has made it clear from the start of camp that he wanted to slow down spring this year. Nimmo has been one of the most important hitters in the Mets lineup, putting up a 145, 131 and 130 OPS+ over his last three seasons. His first season back in 2017 was the only season where he had an OPS+ under 100.
- Start #3 For Cookie: Carlos Carrasco bounced back in his last start, and we are looking for him to continue that trend today. In his first start he allowed two runs from two hits over two innings. In his last start he allowed one run from four hits over three innings. Homeruns made the big difference for Carlos between his first two seasons, he gave them up at double the rate in 2021 compared to 2022. So far this spring he has allowed one homer in each start.
- Darin Ruf: Over the last two days Mark Canha and Mark Vientos have both seen time at first base. Ruf gets another shot at first today. In official spring training games Ruf is 0-6 so far with four strikeouts. He’s also grounded into one double play. This was not a position battle we were anticipating but it’s starting to become one now.
Let’s Go Mets!
