Mets Morning News: Matt Harvey’s fastball still lacking velocity, Citi Field could host some hockey

Meet the Mets

Matt Harvey struggled against the Marlins and the Mets lost as a result by a score of 6-2.

Harvey’s fastball once again dipped into the lower 90s, and it might be a while until the velocity returns. The Dark Knight will need to use brains over brawn and learn how to pitch with diminished velocity, much like Jacob deGrom did early last season.

Tim Tebow had his most productive day since his arrival in camp. He went 2-3 at the plate and made a diving grab at the wall in right field.

Brandon Nimmo is hopeful he will be ready for Opening Day after he received good news regarding his hamstring injury.

Nimmo’s time in the WBC has come to an end, but how are the other Mets faring in the tournament?

The Mets and Nationals should once again be locked in a tight right race for the division, and several key factors could end up ultimately deciding who wears the crown.

A new biography on former manager Casey Stengel is a fascinating look at one of the true characters in the game.

Citi Field is normally home to the boys of summer, but in 2018 it will reportedly host hockey’s Winter Classic, which will feature the New York Rangers and Buffalo Sabres.

Around the NL East

The Braves lost to the Tigers 8-6 behind a poor outing by R.A. Dickey.

Giancarlo Stanton went on a journey in the offseason to help him find peace after the loss of his friend. Marlins manager Don Mattingly believes reliever David Phelps could become his version of Andrew Miller.

The success of Jeremy Hellickson’s season for the Phillies will depend on how well he throws his changeup.

The Nationals had a tough day against the Astros and lost 8-2. They also officially released catcher Derek Norris.

Around the Majors

Home runs by Adam Jones and Eric Hosmer in the eighth helped United States defeat Venezuela in the World Baseball Classic.

Major League Baseball should take notice of the enthusiasm and fun of the World Baseball Classic. Dodgers closer Kenley Jansen will join the Netherlands in the semifinals and Giants starter Johnny Cueto could join the Dominican Republic if the team makes it to the finals.

Not everyone is pleased with how the World Baseball Classic is run.

Grant Brisbee offered his suggestions on how to improve the WBC.

The young position players in the Yankees camp are forcing everyone to take notice of them.

Dodgers young prospect Julio Urias might not make the rotation and instead be assigned to an extended spring training.

With March Madness heating up, players around the league offered their advice on filling out a bracket.

Yesterday at AA

Chris McShane wondered which version of Travis d’Arnaud will show up in 2017.

Brett Hartley believes T.J. Rivera will have to compete for a job next season.

Thomas Henderson wrote about how the Winter Classic could be coming to Citi Field.

Jonathan Maseng covered Harvey’s lack of velocity and Dan Warthen’s thoughts on Harvey’s current state.

Milo Taibi discussed Matt Harvey and Tim Tebow on ESPN Radio’s Hawaii affiliate.

This Date in Mets History

In 1961, the New York State Legislature approved a bond that would allow construction of a 55,000-seat stadium in Flushing Meadows. The Mets would move into Shea Stadium three years later and it would remain home for the next forty-four years.