By MARK HALE

The Mets cut the lead down to a run, but they lost their spring training opener, 5-4 to the Tigers.

The Mets barely hit until late, managing two hits in the first five innings. They finished with six hits on the day. David Newhan and Julio Franco had two RBIs apiece.

By the way, Lastings Milledge was hit on his right hand by a pitch, but he’s all right.

Tomorrow the Mets face St. Louis at home, with Tom Glavine on the hill.