PORT STREET SEA — Tyler Megill was all smiles when asked if he liked the chance to fill a vacant spot in the Mets’ rotation after Monday’s road trip.
“Well, that’s out of my hands,” Megill said. “I just have to keep pitching and keep doing what I have to do.”
That night, he continued his excellent spring training by allowing just one earned run in four innings in an exhibition game against the Marlins at Clover Park. The right-hander allowed three hits, no walks, and struck out two batters.
Megill, who threw 61 pitches, posted a 1.50 ERA in four starts this spring. Tim Anderson’s second inning home run helped score against him.
The Mets have an opening in their rotation, with Kodai Chiga scheduled to begin the season on the disabled list as he rehabilitates from a strained muscle in his right shoulder. Chiga is not expected to return before May.
Before the game, coach Carlos Mendoza praised the approach Megill took starting with his offseason pitching program.
“[Megill] We reported that we are ready,” Mendoza said. “He was one of the few players who was already throwing raw BP when he showed up…and that’s why he’s already up to a pitch count of 60-65. Not only that, but he So is the way he throws the ball. He’s throwing the ball well and asserting himself. This is good.
“We’ve said that all spring training, and hopefully at the end of camp we’re going to have to make some tough decisions because not only are we healthy, but our players are throwing good ball. If that’s what’s going on so far, please pray that they continue to do the same and stay healthy.”
Jeff McNeil played five innings on defense in a minor league game, running the bases and tracking pitches (bunts were allowed).
Coach Mendoza expects McNeil, who has yet to play in the Grapefruit League due to discomfort in his right biceps early in camp, to begin batting practice on Tuesday.
Joey Lucchesi will make his Grapefruit League debut on Tuesday against the Nationals in West Palm Beach, Fla., pitching behind Jose Quintana.
Lucge, a left-handed pitcher who pitches in minor league games, had his scheduled start in the Grapefruit League canceled last week due to rain.
