Mets Morning News: Familia blows a save, but Mets rally for tie

Meet the Mets

The Mets carried a 4-2 lead into the ninth inning of Friday's game against the Cardinals, but Jeurys Familia blew the save. Familia, who had been lights-out so far this spring, gave up a solo home run to Randal Grichuk and then fell apart, giving up three consecutive hits, including a game-tying RBI double to Jedd Gyorko, before proceeding to walk in the go-ahead run. Familia had to be lifted for Zack Thornton, who finished the inning.

The Mets managed to rally in the bottom of the ninth behind a pinch-hit RBI single from Kevin Kaczmarski, which lifted them to a 5-5 tie with St. Louis.

Noah Snydergaard, who started the game, pitched six electric innings, striking out nine and hitting triple digits on the radar gun.

The game also marked the return of former Met and current Cardinal Ruben Tejada, who went 2-for-3 but also committed an error.

Wilmer Flores got the start at first base as Lucas Duda sat with a stiff neck. Manager Terry Collins told the New York Post that Flores will likely see another start at first during spring training in case he needs to fill in during the season. The Post also noted that Asdrubal Cabrera is on track to return to regular action this Sunday.

The Mets will not be wearing camouflage alternate jerseys this season.

Around the National League East

The Braves fell victim to a double washout during split squad games on Friday. The Braves/Astros game didn't just get rained out, it's possible the apocalypse started. Let's hope it's sunny enough for the Mets to beat them tomorrow.

The Phillies signed manager Pete Mackanin to a contract extension today, ending his lame duck status with the team.

Nationals manager Dusty Baker is not worried about Max Scherzer. Are you?

That home run ball Giancarlo Stanton hit on Thursday is worth a re-watch.

Around the Majors

The Chicago Cubs hung out with some actual bear cubs. It was adorable.

The Yankees threw shade on the Mets, and most everyone else who isn't the Yankees.

MLB decided to be huge party-poopers and ban the use of personalized bat stickers this season.

The Cubs' Jake Arrieta may miss his opening day start due to a blister. The Cubs obviously would like the Cy Young winner back sooner rather than later.

Yesterday at Amazin' Avenue

Lukas Vlahos was back with season previews for Sean Gilmartin and Kevin Plawecki.

Chris McShane and Greg Karam discussed Chris' spring training trip in Episode 177 of Amazin' Avenue Audio. Chris also interviewed Greg Prince about his book Amazin' Again later in the podcast.

This Date in Mets History

Way back in 1988 the Mets acquired the enigma that was Mackey Sasser.