Mets Morning News: Rene Rivera could start on Opening Day, Mets option Xorge Carillo to minor league camp

Meet the Mets

Terry Collins suggested that Rene Rivera could start on Opening Day after the combination of Noah Syndergaard and Travis d’Arnaud allowed four stolen bases during Friday’s spring training game against the Astros.

Seth Lugo is getting tired of people calling him Eminem.

Jay Bruce can avoid another bad season by limiting his ground balls.

The Mets optioned Xorge Carillo to the minors.

Bob Klapisch defended MLB’s inability to suspend Jeurys Familia before the World Baseball Classic.

“Steven Matz will be a top-ten pitcher next season” is one of a few wacky bold predictions.

Around the NL East

The Braves lost 3-2 to the Tigers on a 10th inning walkoff single.

Daniel Murphy is confident that he’ll be ready for opening day.

The Nationals are adding more premium seating to their ballpark for this season.

The Marlins beat the Nationals in a split-squad game that saw Ichiro collect two hits.

The Phillies sent Tyler Goeddel and Jake Thompson to the minors.

The Braves, continuing their quest to take every last dime from their fans, will not be allowing outside food into their new ballpark.

Around MLB

Pirates infielder Jung Ho Kang has been denied a visa, and may not be able to play for the team this season.

Yadier Molina wants Adam Jones to apologize to the Puerto Rican people.

Jose Ramirez is closing in on a four-year extension with the Indians.

Giants reliever Will Smith needs Tommy John surgery and will miss the 2017 season.

Eight Angels pitchers combined for a no-hitter against the Mariners.

Derek Norris is set to sign with the Tampa Bay Rays.

Yesterday at AA

Chris McShane previewed the seasons of Hansel Robles here and Josh Edgin here.

Lukas Vlahos previewed Juan Lagares’ season.

Matt Varvaro created a poll asking who the Mets’ best pitcher will be in 2017. You can vote here.

Nathan Gismot continued counting down the top 25 all-time Mets home run leaders with #16: Cleon Jones.

This Date in Mets History

Today marks the birthday of both Lee Mazzilli and Tom Glavine.