Mets Morning News: Wright plays in a minor league game, deGrom is scratched with a sore back

Meet the Mets

Wilmer Flores was one of the few bright spots for the Mets on Monday, as they were beat by the Tigers, 9-2, on Monday. Flores tallied three hits and scored both runs. The Mets will need Flores to continue his success this year, since he'll likely be spelling David Wright, and serve as the team's utility infielder.

Speaking of David Wright, the Mets' third baseman made his first appearance of the spring, in a minor league game on Monday. Wright picked up one hit, and was prepared to run the bases, but didn't get beyond first. Wright was happy with his day, saying that his back felt good, and hopes to get regular reps over the next few weeks.

Jacob deGrom was scheduled to pitch against the Tigers, but was scratched due to a sore back. deGrom blamed the issue on his mattress, and said that it had been bothering him last week, as well.

John Harper opined that Jeurys Familia doesn't need to quick pitch to continue his success. Dan Warthen disagreed, saying that it can be an effective tool. David Lennon is concerned that if Familia can't repeat his success, the bullpen could be the poor.

Fred Kerber wondered where the Mets will get stolen bases from this year. It should probably be noted that they had the fewest stolen bases in the National League in two years, and still made it to the World Series.

Nathaniel Grow of Fangraphs ran down what will happen in the Jenrry Mejia appeals process. It's a long-shot for sure.

Two former Mets are trying to make an impact on their respective teams. Bobby Parnell said that his arm is feeling better, and thinks the Tigers will be competitive. Across town, Cesar Puello, the former Mets farmhand who now wears Yankees blue, is trying to force his way onto the roster.

Around the NL East

A financial situation is developing in Miami, as the Marlins still owe Dan Jennings $1.5 million, but have filed a grievance trying to get that number reduced. The Nationals now pay Jennings as an advisor, and the Marlins want them to pay a chunk.

Fangraphs took a look at the differences in Nationals starters' fastballs.

Around the Majors

Scott Kazmir has some people around the Dodgers worried. Kazmir has had a poor spring training, and his velocity is down.

Johnny Cueto had a scary moment on Monday, when he was hit in the head with a line drive. Cueto went to the hospital afterwards, where he was examined for a concussion.

Paul DePodesta spoke about his transition to the NFL, and how he's ready to take his reputation of being a "baseball nerd" head-on.

Some players around the Cactus League were quick to remind fans how long they're at the ballpark everyday. They said spring training serves as a reminder that baseball is a full-time job.

Chris Sale, who has always been known for his skinny frame, is trying to put on weight and eating a whale of a diet to do it.

Yesterday at AA

Austin Yamada previewed Alejandro de Aza's season, and noted that, as of right now, he's going to have to be a super-sub.

Chris McShane talked about Jacob deGrom getting scratched, and the plan going forward.

Matt Varvaro posted his Mind Boggler for the week, and this time it's about hit streaks!

This Date in Mets History

The Ides of March has been a particularly boring day in Mets history. Nothing of note has ever happened. Oh well, maybe you can go read some history about Brutus and Cassius instead.

If you see a great addition to Mets Morning News, send an email to our tips address, tips@grission.com, and we'll try to add it in!