Mets Morning News: Matz tops MLB.com's Mets prospects list

Meet the Mets

Steven Matz led MLB.com's list of the Mets' top 30 prospects, with first baseman Dominic Smith and shortstop Amed Rosario following in the second and third slots.

Neil Walker participated in a Q&A with Rob Brender of SNY. The former Pirate said he's enjoyed the transition between the Pittsburgh and New York clubhouse, and he hasn't given any thought to where he'll sign as a free agent over the coming offseason.

Shortstop prospect Gavin Cecchini received a cortisone shot for inflammation in his left shoulder.

Alejandro De Aza isn't worried about living in any shadows, according to Mike Puma of the Post. Despite his role as an expensive fifth outfielder, GM Sandy Alderson claimed De Aza's spot on the team is safe for now.

One of the Mets' veteran non-roster invites, Roger Bernadina, hasn't arrived in Port St. Lucie yet due to visa issues.

Around the Majors

Rockies shortstop Jose Reyes has been placed on paid leave until his pending domestic violence case is completed. This development came shortly after rumors surfaced that the Rockies front office 'didn't relish' having Reyes in camp during this period.

After a shoulder issue threw a wrench into Yovani Gallardo's three-year deal with the Orioles, the team is going to try re-structuring their agreement. As The Baltimore Sun noted, Gallardo may be hesitant to negotiate new terms.

Dave Cameron of FanGraphs offered a sharp rebuttal to Jose Bautista's five-year, $150 million contract proposal. Jeff Sullivan, meanwhile, has a rosy outlook on Christian Yelich of the Marlins.

Ryan Howard was not thrilled with the media at yesterday's spring training press conference. Howard, who's under contract for two more seasons, posted a .720 OPS last season.

Yesterday at AA

Noel Purcell listed several possible reasons for Yoenis Cespedes's eccentric vehicle choice.

Jeffrey Paternostro hosted Episode 173 of Amazin' Avenue Audio, discussing the Mets' 2016 catchers with Greg Karam.

This Date in Mets History

On this date in 2010, the Mets signed Rod Barajas to a one-year, $1 million contract. The Dodgers would acquire Barajas from the Mets in late August of that season.

Happy birthday to Eddie Murray and Gustavo Molina!