Mets Morning News: Samardzija touched up for six runs, Wheeler earns second win

Meet the Mets

The Mets won their second-straight game behind three hits from T.J. Rivera, a strong start from Zack Wheeler and three innings of scoreless relief from Hansel Robles, Jerry Blevins, Addison Reed. and Jeurys Familia. Tommy Milone will make his team debut Wednesday afternoon in the series finale.

Choose your recap: Amazin’ Avenue short and long, NY Times, North Jersey, MLB.com, NY Post, Daily News, Newsday, NJ.com.

T.J. Rivera has made a strong case to remain on the big league roster, Anthony DiComo of MLB.com writes.

Matt Harvey apologized to his teammates, the Mets organization and the fans in an afternoon press conference. Josh Smoker was optioned to Triple-A Las Vegas to clear a roster spot for Harvey’s reinstatement.

Prospect Merandy Gonzalez was named the South Atlantic League Player of the Month.

David Roth of VICE Sports discussed the Mets’ role in Matt Harvey’s suspension.

Former teammate Bartolo Colon texted Harvey words of encouragement.

Though he may not be at 100%, Asdrubal Cabrera is expected to start Wednesday’s game.

Tom Verducci of Sports Illustrated described Harvey as a “weathered 28 years old,” suggesting a change of scenery may be beneficial.

Jesse Spector of FanRag Sports discussed Harvey’s off-field issues.

Abbey Mastracco of NJ.com spoke with Adam Wilk about his brief stay on the Mets’ roster.

Around the NL East

Mark Trumbo’s walk-off hit downed the Nationals in 12 innings. The Nats’ bullpen has become an issue for Dusty Baker.

The Cardinals earned a come-from-behind win over Dan Straily and the Marlins.

Maikel Franco’s slump continued in a 10-9 loss to the Mariners.

Bartolo Colon was lit up for eight runs in Atlanta’s loss to the Astros.

Recent acquisition Danny Santana spoke about his new opportunity with the Braves.

Around Major League Baseball

David Laurila of FanGraphs spoke with Jed Bradley about the 26-year-old’s decision to retire.

Albert Pujols hit his 496th career home run.

Michael Baumann of The Ringer profiled former No. 1 draft pick Tim Beckham.

Orioles closer Zach Britton will be out for a considerable stretch with a left forearm injury.

Yesterday at Amazin’ Avenue

Timothy Finnegan outlined the improvement of Zack Wheeler’s slider.

Chris McShane argued against the idea of trading Matt Harvey.

This Date in Mets History

On this date in 2000, Hall-of-Famer Rickey Henderson reached the 10,000 career at-bat mark as a member of the Mets.

Happy birthday to Craig Brazell, Jim Hickman, and Pete Schourek!