THE RUNDOWN

BEST POSITION BATTLE

Adrian Gonzalez has the edge at first base heading into camp, and barring a physical setback will probably emerge as the starter. But Dominic Smith got svelte after a disappointing debut last season and could make it interesting.

MOST INTRIGUING MINOR LEAGUER

Corey Oswalt was the Eastern League Pitcher of the Year last season at Double-A Binghamton. The right-hander is unlikely to compete for a spot on the Mets’ roster to begin the season, but is considered potential rotation depth.

STORY TO WATCH DEVELOP

Noah Syndergaard, Matt Harvey (left), Steven Matz, Zack Wheeler and Seth Lugo missed significant time last season on the disabled list. How many will leave spring training healthy and ready to contribute from the beginning of the season?

MANAGER’S TOUGHEST CHALLENGE

Mickey Callaway has suggested he won’t use a dedicated closer, instead letting the game dictate when he uses certain relievers. In theory that approach sounds great, but executing the plan could be difficult.

MOST INTERESTING NEWCOMER

Anthony Swarzak had a strong 2017 season for the White Sox and Brewers, but previously pitched to mixed results in his major league career. The Mets are counting on the righthander to bolster the back end of their bullpen.

MOST NOTABLE ABSENCE

Michael Conforto (right) will continue his rehab from shoulder surgery in spring training, but likely won’t play in the Grapefruit League. The Mets are targeting early May for Conforto’s return, which would translate into playing his first rehab games after the team heads north to begin the season.

DON’T BE SURPRISED IF THIS BECOMES AN ISSUE

Kevin Plawecki was solid sharing time behind the plate with Travis d’Arnaud after returning from Triple-A Las Vegas late last season. But it might be premature to suggest Plawecki will be part of the answer for the Mets at catcher in 2018.

BIGGEST COMEBACK

Yoenis Cespedes was shut down for the final month of the regular season with a pulled hamstring, after playing just 81 games and appearing uncomfortable for much of the season. Cespedes is out to prove he can keep his legs healthy and carry this Mets lineup for an entire season.

COULD SURPRISE AND MAKE THE TEAM

Robert Gsellman is the seventh option for the rotation, and might begin the season at Triple-A if everybody is healthy, but the right-hander has good enough stuff to be considered for a bullpen role.