Dom: I lost weight, not strength

PORT ST. LUCIE — A slimmer Dominic Smith shouldn’t have to translate into a less powerful Dominic Smith.

The Mets first baseman, who lost about 30 pounds through conditioning and diet in the offseason, indicated Tuesday he’s still expecting to hit the ball long and far in 2018.

Though Smith batted just .198 in his audition with the Mets over the final six weeks of last season, his nine homers impressed team officials.

“I know I have more power than I had last year,” Smith said. “I worked on my swing, too, so I actually improved my mechanics and that is going to help me elevate the ball easier.”

Smith said his bat speed has increased with his weight loss.

“I have more whip through the zone instead of being slow through the zone,” Smith said. “I think that will help me catch up to higher velocity and help me control my body so when I get out there on my front foot I can stay back [with his hands] and not get out there too early.”

Jacob deGrom left the team to prepare for the birth of his second child (a daughter), on Wednesday. DeGrom plans a return to the Mets on Saturday. DeGrom’s wife, Stacey, was due on Feb. 12.

Terry Collins made his first appearance at spring training in his new role as special assistant to the general manager. The former Mets manager is expected to assist with the development of minor league players.