Your Thursday morning dose of Mets and Major League Baseball news, notes, and links.
Meet the Mets
Mike Vorkunov wrote about Noah Syndergaard's difficult 2014 season. He detailed how Syndergaard became more accepting of coaching, especially from pitching coach Frank Viola and ultimately became a better pitcher for it.
Vorkunov also wrote about Rafael Montero's prospects for making the opening day roster as a relief pitcher. Dillon Gee potentially starting the season in the bullpen, and Montero's lack of experience in relief were both cited as reasons he would instead head to Triple-A to begin.
Terry Collins was asked about how he would manage the bullpen in the upcoming season. He noted the difficulty of getting everyone on the Mets' deep pitching staff adequate reps during spring training.
Former Mets reliever Roger McDowell still receives royalties for his brief appearance on Seinfeld. Every time the episode "The Boyfriend" airs, he receives $13.52.
Around the NL East
Bryce Harper is very confident coming into 2015. When asked for his reaction to the Scherzer signing, he responded, "Where is my ring?"
Jarrett Cowgill wrote about the state of the Marlins' farm system for Fish Stripes. Despite recent trades and promotions, the team still boasts a fair share of pitching prospects.
Ryan Howard has reported to spring training in better shape than in previous seasons. This comes after the Phillies were openly trying to trade him this offseason, but found no takers.
At Talking Chop, Harris Nye feels bad for Melvin Upton. Upton has endured two horrible seasons for the Braves, Seasons in which fans had high expectations. Nye views his name change as a desire to start fresh.
Around Major League Baseball
Josh Hamilton was summoned to New York to meet with Major League Baseball regarding a "disciplinary issue." Jon Heyman reported that Hamilton experienced a relapse involving "at least cocaine."
The Pirates are reportedly open to further extending Andrew McCutchen's contract. The star center fielder is already under contract through 2018 but the team wants to make sure he is a Pirate for life.
Various SB Nation baseball writers gave their opinions on commissioner Rob Manfred's comments regarding potentially shortening the season. Those for it pointed to the season being really long as is and the potential to reduce injuries. While those against it questioned who would actually benefit from the change.
Howard Megdal wrote about high school senior Chelsea Baker's dreams of one day pitching in the major leagues. Baker has honed a knuckleball for most of her life in order to compensate for lower velocity. She recognizes the obstacles, but is still holding out for a chance to go to the next level.
Yesterday at AA
Is Terry Collins on the hot seat? He is in the last year of his contract, and for the first time during his tenure, the Mets have serious expectations of winning. In addition, several close friends suggested he may retire at the end of 2015 regardless of the outcome.
Season previews continued with two more additions. Steve Sypa wrote about Vic Black, while Mike Pisciotta wrote about Dillon Gee.
Today in Mets History
Happy birthdayKevin Plawecki! The former first round pick will likely begin the season in Triple-A, but he could make his majore league debut some time in 2015.