Wheeler making case for rotation

PORT ST. LUCIE — Zack Wheeler’s stuff has been electric this spring, causing Mets officials to privately gush about the manner in which the right-hander has performed.

But where Wheeler begins the season — Mets rotation, bullpen or even Triple-A Las Vegas — will likely be predicated upon how he fares in his final three appearances of the exhibition season.

Wheeler will receive one of those opportunities to impress Tuesday night, when he faces the Nationals in a split-squad game in West Palm Beach, Fla. In three appearances this spring Wheeler has posted a 1.80 ERA with eight strikeouts in five innings. What has been most impressive about Wheeler? “Health,” said a major league talent evaluator who has watched each of Wheeler’s appearances this spring. Wheeler missed the last two months of last season with a stress reaction in his right arm and received injections during the offseason to strengthen his bones. To this point, the Mets like what they have seen, as Wheeler potentially battles Steven Matz for a final rotation spot. Matz had two ugly appearances before strengthening his case with four shutout innings against the Tigers on Friday.

Noah Syndergaard is scheduled to face the Astros at First Data Field in the first half of the Mets’ split-squad doubleheader.

Anthony Swarzak could return to action within the next few days after missing the last two weeks with a strained calf. The righty reliever threw a simulated game on Sunday.

Tim Tebow was excused from camp two weekends ago, according to the Mets, so he could attend his foundation’s golf tournament and celebrity gala in Ponte Vedra, Fla. The event raised $2.2 million.

The Mets are expected to make their first wave of cuts this week. There are still 56 players in camp.

Monday was the first of two scheduled off days for the Mets. Their final day off during the Grapefruit League season will come March 21.