From MIKE PUMA

PORT ST. LUCIE — Freddy Garcia‘s bid to make the Opening Day roster ended today, when the team re-assigned the veteran right-hander to its minor league camp and made Livan Hernandez the winner in the fifth-starter sweepstakes. Garcia, who was 0-3 with a 16.71 ERA against major league competition this spring, has decided to remain with the organization rather than seek employment elsewhere. Garcia had said early in camp that he would refuse a minor-league assignment.

Mets assistant GM John Ricco said Garcia will either begin the season at Triple-A Buffalo or extended spring training.

“We’re glad he decided to stay with us and continue to try to get back to the major leagues,” Ricco said.