Mets Morning News: Dominic Smith starts spring off on the wrong foot

Meet the Mets

If Dominic Smith is hoping to be the Mets’ starting first baseman in 2018, he certainly didn’t make the best first impression on manager Mickey Callaway. Callaway benched Smith for the team’s first exhibition game after Smith showed up late for a team meeting despite the fact that Callaway had apparently told players earlier in the week that punctuality was his number one rule.

Several students from Marjory Stoneman Douglas High School were invited to the game by the Mets and spoke with reporters at the game.

Zack Wheeler threw some serious heat in one inning of work.

Around the National League East

The Braves were busy losing to the Mets.

One big question for the Nationals this season is who will be the team’s fifth starter.

Members of the Stoneman Douglas baseball and softball teams met with Derek Jeter as well.

Around Major League Baseball

Francisco Liriano agreed to a one-year deal with the Tigers.

As if the Rays offseason hasn’t been bad enough, Brent Honeywell will require Tommy John surgery.

MLB will be requiring teams to store baseballs in an air conditioned room this season.

Yesterday at Amazin’ Avenue

Kory Powell wants MLB to lay off making changes to the ninth inning of games.

Richard Staff delivered the season preview for new Met Jason Vargas.

This Date in Mets History

Happy birthday to former Met and hall-of-famer Eddie Murray.