Mets Morning News: Matt Harvey’s velocity is up, Tim Tebow will be a Firefly

Meet the Mets

Matt Harvey took the mound against Detroit and showed some encouraging signs, including touching 96 mph with his fastball, though he still suffered from some control issues.

Like a lyric from an Owl City song, Tim Tebow is about to become a part of the Fireflies.

Fernando Salas made his first appearance for the Mets after returning from the World Baseball Classic, a return delayed by a visa issue.

Jeurys Familia is still waiting to find out whether he’ll be suspended by Major League Baseball.

Don’t be shocked if Paul Sewald manages to clinch a spot in the Mets’ bullpen.

Gavin Cecchini is trying out second base.

Around the NL East

R.A. Dickey continued to struggle in another rough spring outing for the Braves.

The Braves also released veteran pitcher John Danks.

Tomas Telis is trying to make a case for the Marlins to bring him up as their backup catcher this year.

The Nationals lost to the Yankees 9-3 in Grapefruit League play.

Around MLB

Puerto Rico won 4-3 over the Netherlands in the 11th inning, though the victory was somewhat less thrilling due to the World Baseball Classic’s bizarre extra innings rule that starts a team with two men on base.

Yankees shortstop Didi Gregorious injured his shoulder, and his return date is uncertain.

The White Sox are discussing a long-term contract with Tim Anderson.

Johnny Cueto had a strong outing for the Giants.

Nate Karns has won the fifth spot in the Royals’ rotation.

Some Palestinian women are attempting to bring baseball to the Gaza Strip.

The Red Sox are still on the lookout for more rotation depth.

Kevin Kiermaier was the recipient of a $53.5 million, six-year deal from the Rays.

John Harper argues, correctly, that the World Baseball Classic’s late start times haven’t been helping the tournament.

A guy sent letters to all 30 MLB teams asking them why he should be a fan of theirs. Only seven responded, and the Mets were not among them.

Has Jason Heyward’s swing makeover actually worked?

Yesterday at AA

Matt Varvaro delivered another Monday Morning Mets Mind Boggler.

This Date in Mets History

Today is the birthday of Tommy Davis and Shawon Dunston.