Zack Wheeler makes his Grapefruit League debut today at 1:10 PM when the Mets host the Houston Astros at Tradition Field in Port St. Lucie. You can watch the game on SNY or listen in on WOR 710 AM.
Wheeler was 7-5 with a 3.42 ERA in 17 starts for the Mets last season, but was too often lacking control. He walked 10.7 percent of the batters he faced last season, seventh worst among starters who pitched at least 100 innings.
He said his goal this season is to slow things down and have a more consistent delivery. The righthander attributed his control problems to rushing his delivery and getting his mechanics out of whack.
I’m excited to see how he looks today as the Mets shoot for two spring wins in a row…
Also scheduled to pitch for the Mets today are Kyle Farnsworth, John Church, Vic Black, Adam Kolarek, Scott Rice and Cory Mazzoni.
As for the Mets’ walking wounded, shortstop Ruben Tejada (hamstring), first baseman Ike Davis (calves), and outfielder Eric Young Jr. (tightness) are all slated to play today after missing some time to nurse minor ailments. First baseman Lucas Duda left Monday’s game early after his leg became stiff, and his status is uncertain.
Terry Collins is limiting David Wright and Daniel Murphy’s at-bats during spring training, but they will make their debut at the end of the week. Both have yet to play this spring.
By the way, veteran baseball writer John Delcos, a frequent contributor to Metsmerized, will answer your comments and questions over on his blog, NewYorkMetsreport.com. Post your questions on the game thread and he’ll be there throughout the afternoon to respond.
Lineups
Mets
Eric Young Jr., LF
Chris Young, CF
Curtis Granderson, RF
Brandon Allen, 1B
Josh Satin, 3B
Travis d’Arnaud, C
Taylor Teagarden, DH
Anthony Seratelli, SS
Omar Quintanilla, 2B
Zack Wheeler, RHP
Astros
Dexter Fowler, CF
Jose Altuve, 2B
Marc Krauss, RF
Chris Carter, DH
Jesus Guzman, 1B
Carlos Corporan, C
L.J. Hoes, LF
Jonathan Villar, SS
Cesar Izturis, 3B
Rudy Owens, LHP
(Photo Credit: US Presswire)
