PORT ST. LUCIE — Dillon Gee considered Thursday’s intrasquad scrimmage a success despite the unsightly numbers.
The Mets right-hander allowed six base runners over 1 ²/₃ innings and took the loss for the Orange team at Tradition Field.
“My fastball and curveball were good today, but I need four pitches to throw for a strike,” said Gee, who allowed two earned runs on five hits and a walk with two strikeouts.
Gee had a slow start last season before posting a 2.71 ERA over the final four months. He adjusted his workout program this offseason with the hope it will allow him to avoid a slow start.
“I just feel more in tune right now than I did last year,” Gee said.
A club source confirmed a report saying general manager Sandy Alderson told staff at a recent meeting he believes the Mets can win 90 games this season. The source said principal owner Fred Wilpon added: “We better win 90.”
The Mets have won 74 games each of the last two seasons and haven’t finished with a winning record since 2008.
Wilmer Flores is expected to play second base on Friday against the Nationals. Manager Terry Collins listed Curtis Granderson, Chris Young, Travis d’Arnaud and Juan Lagares among his starters for the game. Rafael Montero is expected to pitch two innings.
Bartolo Colon (calf) rode a stationary bike, but the Mets don’t want him running. The right-hander may throw on Friday, but pitching coach Dan Warthen will monitor the situation to ensure Colon doesn’t put too much stress on the calf.
Eric Young Jr. is battling soreness in his rib cage area and won’t appear in an exhibition game until at least Sunday, according to Collins.