PORT STREET LUCIE — The new center fielder who joined the Mets on Saturday was their former center fielder.
Brandon Nimmo shifted to left field this spring after Harrison Bader took center field, but he told team officials he would move around as needed.
Bader got a scheduled day off Saturday during the Mets’ 6-1 exhibition win over the Astros in West Palm Beach, but manager Carlos Mendoza announced earlier in the week that he would play center field this night with Nimmo. We talked about it.
Nemo had no problem with the plan.
“This is an area where communication is key,” Mendoza said. “We knew he was going to be playing center for about six or seven days before going into the game to make sure he was getting reps and making sure he had a lead. is adjusting well. This is a complete professional.”
Tyron Taylor is also an option in center field, but Manager Mendoza may want to add an extra left-handed bat to the lineup, with Joey Wendle playing second base, Jeff McNeil in left and Nimmo in center field. right.
“We’re going to try to avoid that as much as possible,” Mendoza said. “But if that’s something you’re considering, I’d be proactive and donate.” [Nimmo] Give him a heads-up so he can prepare accordingly. ”
Mendoza said McNeil will bat with the minor league side instead of joining the Mets in a split-squad game against the Marlins on Sunday at Clover Park. McNeil is currently scheduled to make his Grapefruit League debut on Tuesday (Monday is off for the Mets). McNeil was slowed early in camp due to soreness in his right bicep.
“He’s in great shape,” Mendoza said. “But this is something we want to make sure he’s in an environment and can control it. He’s going to go down. [to the minor league side] And if I can play five innings and get some at-bats, I hope everything goes well and I can play on Tuesday.”
McNeil took batting practice against the high speeds on Saturday.
After the birth of his third son, Edwin Diaz returned to the camp with his wife, Nashari.
The right-handed pitcher is expected to pitch on Sunday in his second Grapefruit League appearance this spring. In his first game in almost a year, Diaz had one strikeout in one inning on Monday.
