Mets Morning News: Mets drop final Grapefruit League game, head to Las Vegas

Meet the Mets

The Mets lost their final Grapefruit League contest in  game against the Nationals by a score of 12-1. Matt Harvey returned from his ailment, and gave up three runs over two innings. Noah Syndergaard also pitched, allowing two runs over three innings.

After the game, Harvey declined to talk to the media. This came on the heals of his health scare being mocked by New York tabloids.

The Mets announced that Syndergaard will start the second game of the season. Harvey will start Opening Day as planned, while Jacob deGrom will start the home opener.

Syndergaard does not believe that his pitch to open Game 3 of the World Series warrants retribution by the Royals. For their part, the Royals have denied the rumors of retribution.

Sara Novic discussed baseball's need to be more inclusive if it wants to increase its popularity.

Terry Collins isn't worried about the Mets poor spring training record. The team finished 7-15-5 in Grapefruit League play.

Around the NL East

The Nationals released and then re-signed veteran pitchers Bronson Arroyo and Burke Badenhop. Both pitchers were given minor league deals.

The Braves released former Mets reliever Alex Torres. They also signed free agent Drew Stubbs to a minor league deal.

The Phillies re-signed right-handed pitcher Edward Mujica to a minor league deal after he cleared waivers.

Relievers Craig Breslow and Dustin McGowan both appear to be in position to earn spots on the Marlins' 25-man roster as members of the bullpen.

Around MLB

Yankees reliever Andrew Miller was hit by a comebacker on the right wrist. He exited the game, and a CT scan later revealed a chip fracture.

Major League Baseball will allow iPads in the dugout as part of a deal with Apple. The tablets will be loaded with statistics to be used during games.

Roberto Osuna has been named the Blue Jays closer. He was in a competition for the role with Drew Storen, who was acquired this past offseason in a trade with the Nationals.

The Rays intend to either trade or release first baseman James Loney. The 32-year-old is coming off a season in which he hit .280/.322/.357.

Hyun-soo Kim, signed from the Korean Baseball Organization this offseason, is not expected to make the Orioles' 25-man roster. The team will need his consent to send him to Triple-A, per his contract.

Yesterday at AA

Austin Yamada examined Jeurys Familia's improved control over the past several seasons. He concludes that the results were due to an improved approach to pitching.

Brian Salvatore previewed newly acquired reliever Antonio Bastardo. The lefty will play in a key role in the Mets' bullpen this season.

This Date in Mets History

In 1998, the Mets and Phillies tied the National League record for longest Opening Day game. The Mets won on a walk-off hit by Alberto Castillo in the 14th inning.