MLB

Mets’ Wheeler efficient in debut

PORT ST. LUCIE — Zack Wheeler’s new goal is efficiency.

On that count, the Mets right-hander was a success in his first start of the Grapefruit League season on Tuesday, needing just 40 pitches over three shutout innings against the Astros.

“I was just trying to attack guys, get ahead of them,” said Wheeler, who allowed two hits and struck out three with no walks. “That is my plan going into the season, keep my pitch count down and get ahead of guys so I could go deeper into games.”

Wheeler, according to manager Terry Collins, appears more comfortable with the Mets, after last year spending 3 ¹/₂ months in the majors.

“It’s never been an issue with him not working,” Collins said. “But he is going through the drills really well. A real professional. His sides have been outstanding.”

Wheeler made it known early in camp that he would like to be the team’s Opening Day starter — Jon Niese is pegged for that spot — but Collins applauds that kind of bravado.

“I thought what he said at the beginning of camp was great,” Collins said. “With our situation right now, hell, he may be the Opening Day starter. I just think he’s applying himself well.”

Collins later clarified his remark, saying he still expects Niese for Opening Day. But the lefty Niese still has not thrown in the exhibition season after incurring recent soreness in his triceps. Niese is scheduled to pitch on Thursday in a “B” game.


Ruben Tejada, Ike Davis and Lucas Duda all remained sidelined with various leg injuries. Tejada (hamstring) and Davis (calf) won’t play until at least Friday, according to Collins, and Duda (hamstring) was “really sore” on Tuesday.

Collins indicated the situation is frustrating because he wants to get at-bats for all three players, who are coming off subpar seasons.

“To have it happen this early in camp was a little surprising,” Collins said. “We planned on getting them some playing time, and that’s certainly something that has not been able to come about.”


Tony Clark, executive director of the MLB Players’ Association, held a meeting with players before workouts. Later, speaking with reporters, Clark spoke in generic terms when asked if he was concerned about the Mets’ payroll. The team’s projected payroll of $87 million for 2014 would rank among the bottom third of major league clubs.

“Whether it’s New York or any other team, one of our responsibilities as a union is to protect the interests of the players,” Clark said. “And obviously support the interests and advancement of the game in general.”

Clark would not say if he had spoken with team owner Fred Wilpon or general manager Sandy Alderson over concerns about the team’s payroll.