Mets Morning News: Nimmo and Alonso go deep

Meet the Mets

The Mets beat the Nationals 8-4 yesterday in Port St. Lucie. Brandon Nimmo hit a leadoff homer and has a 2.036 OPS this Spring, which is pretty good.

Pete Alonso hit a go-ahead grand slam in the 5th, and a kid wearing an Alonso shirsey ended up with the souvenir. It is not the first time Alonso has homered on his mom’s birthday.

David Peterson pitched well in his debut, and is hoping to parlay his early success into a regular season rotation spot.

Despite giving up all four runs to the Nationals, Dellin Betances registered the win. Neither he nor Jeurys Familia pitched particularly well, and the bullpen might have to rely on both to improve upon their 2020 seasons.

Seth Lugo says the rehabilitation on his throwing elbow is proceeding on schedule, though there is no set date for his return.

New Mets outfielder Khalil Lee is receiving guidance from Francisco Lindor and Dom Smith.

Baseball Prospectus wonders aloud how much longer the best pitcher in baseball can maintain his dominance (paywall ahead).

Tim Britton believes the Mets need to say more after Sandy Alderson’s tepid responses to questions about Jared Porter, Mickey Callaway, and Trevor Bauer (paywall ahead).

Around the National League East

Ryan Zimmerman registered three RBI off a home run and a double in Wednesday’s loss to the Mets.

The Pirates beat the Braves 6-1 Thursday night in Bradenton, Florida.

Braves starter Max Fried will miss his scheduled debut Friday due to possible exposure to COVID-19.

The Phillies beat the Yankees 15-0 Thursday night in Clearwater, Florida. Super-prospect Mickey Moniak homered twice.

Around Major League Baseball

The Brewers signed outfielder Jackie Bradley Jr. to a 2-year, $24 million deal.

Yankees manager Aaron Boone left the hospital yesterday and is doing well. He reportedly underwent surgery to install a pacemaker.

MLB announced the inaugural Lou Gehrig Day, set for June 2nd, 2021. Gehrig joins Jackie Robinson and Roberto Clemente as the only players with a league-wide dedication day.

Jason Lloyd called shenanigans on official statements coming from the Cleveland organization regarding departed coach Mickey Callaway (paywall ahead).

The Pittsburgh Pirates’ best asset, which many consider to be the best ballpark in the majors, will keep its name for the next ten years.

Yesterday at Amazin’ Avenue

Brian examined Ryley Gilliam while Chris previewed Johneshwy Fargas for the upcoming season.

Brian hosted another chat on Locker Room. This is becoming a thing!

This Date in Mets History

Minor-league legend and Mater Dei alum Mike Hessman turns 43 today.