New York Mets center fielder Brandon Nimmo (9) follows through on a solo home run against the Washington Nationals during the fourth inning at Citi Field.

Brandon Nimmo. Brad Penner-USA TODAY Sports

Sunday, March 12, 2023 • 1:10 PM
Clover Park • Port St. Lucie, Florida
RHP Luis Patino (1-0, 0.00) vs. RHP Carlos Carrasco (0-1, 5.40)
WPIX

The New York Mets are set to play their first game after making first round of spring training cuts last night. There were no surprises in the first round of cuts – most of the players are prospects who the Mets just wanted to get an extended look at. Everyone involved in roster battles are still in Mets camp as the Mets play their 15th official spring training game this afternoon.

New York is coming off of a loss against the Washington Nationals last night and the outcome of the game might be the least important aspect of that game.

Brett Baty continued his excellent spring going 2-for-2 at the plate and stealing a base. Mark Vientos continued to make noise playing first base while going 3-for-4 with a double. Meanwhile, Ronny Mauricio went 0-for-3 with a walk and stole a base. The Mets put all of their infield talent on the field last night and shined.

Mets Lineup

Rays Lineup

Pending.

Game Notes

Tim Locastro has had an excellent spring, He ranks third in the major with a .469 OBP. He is also tied for third in doubles with five, as well as stolen bases (5).

The New York Mets are taking over New York City with the club’s first-ever Amazin’ Day, an all-day, citywide extravaganza for Mets’ fans taking place on Saturday, March 25. Fans who wear a Mets’ hat or any Mets’ gear will be granted access to several events at iconic NYC institutions, community- focused events, and giveaways throughout the day.

Three Things To Watch For

  1. Nimmo’s Return: Brandon Nimmo is scheduled to finally play in a spring training game today. Nimmo has made it clear from the start of camp that he wanted to slow down spring this year. He has been one of the most important hitters in the Mets’ lineup, putting up a 145, 131, and 130 OPS+ over his last three seasons. His first season back in 2017 was the only season where he had an OPS+ under 100.
  2. Start Number Three For Cookie: Carlos Carrasco bounced back in his last start, and is surely hoping to continue that trend today. In his first start, he allowed two runs from two hits over two innings. In his last start, he allowed one run from four hits over three innings. Home runs made the big difference for Carlos between his first two seasons, he gave them up at double the rate in 2021 compared to 2022. So far this spring he has allowed one homer in each start.
  3. Darin Ruf: Over the last two days Mark Canha and Mark Vientos have both seen time at first base. Ruf gets another shot at first today. In official spring training games Ruf is 0-for-6 so far with four strikeouts. He’s also grounded into one double play.