Mets Morning News: Opening Day is a week away, Jacob deGrom pitches well in spring start

Meet the Mets

Opening Day is only a week away for the Mets, as the team will begin its 2016 season in Kansas City on the night of April 3. The Mets are hoping to roll out their complete Opening Day lineup—including shortstop Asdrubal Cabrera—in a spring training game, possibly as soon as today.

Jacob deGrom pitched well in his spring training start yesterday, though his velocity still wasn't quite what it was last year. The pitcher doesn't sound concerned.

Yoenis Cespedes is reportedly okay after feeling a twinge in his shoulder.

Anthony DiComo profiled Dick Scott, who transitioned from director of player development to bench coach when Bob Geren left to take the same job with the Dodgers.

Marc Carig takes a stab at predicting the Mets' 25-man roster for Opening Day.

The Nationals might not be the Braves or Phillies of years past when it comes to their rivalry with the Mets, but they have the star power to rise to that level, says the Post.

Mets tickets are selling really well, to the point that the team's executives are surprised.

Around the NL East

Talking Chop has some Braves storylines to follow this year, even if the team is going to be terrible.

The Good Phight seems pretty excited about Maikel Franco.

Around MLB

Cuba is open to welcoming back players who have defected from the country to its national team.

The Hardball Times previews Vin Scully's final season of broadcasting.

This date in Mets history

On this date in 1987, the Mets traded for David Cone.