Mets Morning News: Mets win first game of spring, Plawecki might start year in minors

Meet the Mets

The Mets won their first game of the spring, a 3-1 victory over the Astros. Matt Reynolds and Dominic Smith each posted multi-hit afternoons, though Smith caught some flack from Terry Collins for not hustling on a long single.

New second baseman Neil Walker opened up with Steve Serby of the New York Post about the death of a childhood friend and his on-field mentality.

John Harper of the Daily News discussed the recent passing of Shannon Forde, and the MLB's efforts to raise awareness for the Stand Up To Cancer national program.

David Wright has needed to adjust to his slow-paced spring training, as the third baseman has significant work ahead of him before appearing in a Grapefruit League game.

Terry Collins sung the praises of young left fielder Michael Conforto, telling the Daily News "the sky is the limit on what he’s going to do offensively."

The Mets have high hopes for Hansel Robles, who has "matured an incredible amount," according to pitching coach Dan Warthen.

Mets catcher Kevin Plawecki could begin the season in Triple-A, writes Marc Carig of Newsday. If the Mets opt to give Plawecki more consistent at-bats in Las Vegas, we would likely see Johnny Monell break camp as the team's primary backup.

Having sorted out visa issues, outfielder Roger Bernadina has joined the Mets in Port. St. Lucie.

Around the Majors

The Rays have signed former first baseman Dan Johnson as a knuckleball pitcher. Johnson has a history of clutch hitting in the Tampa organization, which may have led to the opportunity.

Kenta Maeda made his spring debut for the Dodgers, throwing two scoreless innings. With the recent injury to Brett Anderson, Maeda will be heavily relied upon in manager Dave Roberts' rotation.

Grant Brisbee named his five most interesting players in the AL West, including former divisional rival: Ian Desmond.

In a surprising move, the Braves cut veteran reliever David Carpenter, who was not believed to be injured.

The Pittsburgh Post-Gazette profiled Tyler Glasnow and Jameson Taillon, two promising pitchers who may receive big league action this season.

Craig Edwards of FanGraphs examined Royals catcher Salvador Perez's recent extension, and compared it to other revised long-term deals.

Yesterday at AA

Lukas Vlahos previewed closer Jeurys Familia's 2016 campaign.

This Date in Mets History

Happy 77th birthday to former Mets coach Cookie Rojas!