PORT ST. LUCIE — Lucas Duda had a higher OPS against lefties than righties last season, but that won’t guarantee him the chance to play every day for the Mets in 2016.
Even so, performances like Monday’s will bolster his case.
Duda’s two-run homer against lefty Justin Wilson was among the highlights of the Mets’ 7-3 exhibition victory over the Tigers at Tradition Field.
“[Duda] had a real good first half against [lefties],” manager Terry Collins said, referring to last season. “The second half he kind of tailed off a little bit. Like a lot of times in the second half, scouting reports start getting spread around and teams start sharing more information.
“But in his minor league years he’s always hit lefties. It’s just nice to get him in there and have him face them.”
Steven Matz allowed one run on one hit and two walks over three innings in the Mets’ 9-4 loss to the Cardinals in Jupiter, Fla.
“I felt really good,” Matz said. “I have to always tell myself to tone it down.”
The lefty struck out three batters in his initial start of the spring.
“I am really happy where I am at,” Matz said.
After starting the last three home games as the designated hitter, Yoenis Cespedes will play center field on Wednesday, according to Collins.
Matt Harvey, who will make his initial start of the exhibition season on Tuesday against the Braves in Lake Buena Vista, Fla., said he won’t get amped up until later in camp.
“It is fun, but we still do realize it’s March 8,” Harvey said. “It’s a process and we understand that. Once we get to five or six innings in spring training, it will be cool. Us getting closer and building up to five innings means you’re getting closer to the season starting.”
Mike Piazza will be honored Wednesday by the New York state legislature for his election to the Hall of Fame. Sen. Jose Peralta, who represents the communities around Citi Field, will host Piazza at the state capitol.
— Additional reporting by Joel Sherman
Training day
Bart’s debut
Bartolo Colon worked three innings and allowed one run on four hits in the Mets’ 7-3 exhibition victory over the Tigers.
Not in control
Jerry Blevins walked two batters in the sixth inning and allowed one run. The lefty reliever allowed an RBI single to James McCann.
Caught my eye
Neil Walker got fooled by former Met Mike Pelfrey and was picked off first base in the second inning.
Tuesday’s schedule
Matt Harvey will start against the Braves in Lake Buena Vista, Fla.
