Mets Morning News: Cespedes to address media, Black bids adieu

Meet the Mets

After being designated for assignment on January 27, outfielder Darrell Ceciliani was traded to the Toronto Blue Jays in exchange for cash considerations. Ceciliani compiled a .206/.270/.279 slash line in his first big league season.

Reliever Vic Black made it known that he'll be signing elsewhere this offseason by writing a heartfelt letter to the Mets' fan base. Acquired along with Dilson Herrera from the Pirates, Black pitched a combined 47.2 innings with a 2.83 ERA over parts of two seasons in Flushing.

Yoenis Cespedes will speak with the media at 1:00 p.m. this afternoon.

The Las Vegas 51s, Triple-A affiliate of the Mets, will again be managed by Wally Backman in 2016. A member of the 1986 World Champion Mets, Backman has tallied a 239-193 record in his three seasons as 51s skipper.

Steven Matz spoke to Kevin Kernan of the New York Post about his offseason activities, which have included a recent charity outing to the Honduras.

Around the NL East

Mark Bradley of the Atlanta Journal-Constitution discussed Braves GM John Coppolella's rebuilding strategy.

After missing out on the likes of Doug Fister and Bronson Arroyo, the Marlins are still looking to sign a veteran starter this offseason, and are rumored to be interested in Kyle Lohse.

Barry Svrluga of The Washington Post explained how the Nationals' dispute with television network MASN are impacting financial details of contracts offered.

The Phillies unveiled their 2016 alternate uniforms to a lukewarm reception.

Around the Majors

The Indians are considering signing Juan Uribe as an everyday third baseman. Uribe, who split time with the Braves and Mets last season, would likely be an offensive upgrade over current starter Giovanny Urshela.

Though he had announced his retirement in May of last season, Carlos Quentin inked a minor league deal with the Twins.

Tony Blengino of Fangraphs made a case for the Tigers to contend in the AL Central.

The White Sox and Rangers are hot on Dexter Fowler's trail, according to Marc Normandin of SB Nation.

Former Met Collin McHugh spoke to Brian McTaggart of MLB.com about his successful 2015 campaign in Houston's rotation.

Todd Rosiak of the Milwaukee-Wisconsin Journal Sentinel discussed the recent offensive struggles of Jean Segura, who will assume the role of everyday shortstop for the Diamondbacks this season.

This Date in Mets History

Happy 27th birthday to Lucas Duda! Duda's combined 57 home runs over the past two seasons have fueled the team's power production.