No thumb down for Frazier
PORT ST. LUCIE — A couple of returning players offered the thumbs-up to the Mets’ signing of free-agent third baseman Todd Frazier. “I think he’s a solid player both offensively and defensively,” catcher Travis d’Arnaud said of Frazier following a voluntary workout on Tuesday at the Mets’ training complex. “He’s been a solid player for his whole career and I think him playing in his hometown in New York is going to fire him up and he’ll be amped up every single game.”
Frazier, who will turn 32 next week, agreed to a two-year deal worth $17 million on Monday night to add another power bat. Frazier has belted 67 home runs for the White Sox and the Yankees over the past two seasons.
“I feel really good because he’s a veteran guy and I can learn a lot from him,” second-year shortstop Amed Rosario said through an interpreter. “I’m probably going to pick his brain out.” Noah Syndergaard also tweeted a thumb sdown emoji on Monday night, representing the gesture Frazier popularized with the Yankees after a Mets fan was shown flashing his thumbs down at the third baseman during a Yankees-Rays game that was played at Citi Field due to Hurricane Irma.
TOSSING AROUND
After undergoing surgery in September, Michael Conforto is another early arrival at First Data Field. He played catch during the morning workout.
SHORT ORDER
Rosario, 22, enters this camp with a different mindset and standing from one year ago, as the expected starting shortstop after appearing in 46 late-season games for the Mets in 2017. He batted .248 with four homers and a .665 OPS — with 49 strikeouts and just three walks — over 170 plate appearances.
“I feel healthier and more prepared for this year since I had a little bit of time (in the majors). I know what to expect now,” Rosario said. “The game’s a little quicker and I have to make adjustments quicker, but I learned a lot and being there helps me for this year.”