Let’s be Frank: New closer is struggling
New Mets closer Frank Francisco allowed two runs on five hits in two innings against Miami on Saturday in Jupiter, Fla. Francisco’s spring ERA is 5.54. “He’s one of those veteran guys,” Terry Collins said. “I’ve had probably five or six people in the last week say, ‘Don’t get caught up in what he does in spring training. He does it every spring. He steps it up when the big lights come on.’ ”
Francisco has allowed a run in seven of his 11 spring appearances. Even though he’s walked just four batters in 13 innings, opponents are batting .333 against him.
HOUSTON, WE MAY BE PARTNERS
Houston Astros owner Jim Crane toured the Mets’ spring training complex on Saturday morning, exploring a possible move from Kissimmee, Fla., to Port St. Lucie, where his team would share Digital Domain Park with the Mets.
The east coast of Florida, where the Mets play their spring training schedule, is facing a dearth of Grapefruit League teams. As it is, the Mets play a disproportionate amount of games against Washington (in Viera) St. Louis and Miami (both in Jupiter).
Amid recent reports that the Nationals were progressing toward a move to farflung Fort Myers, the Mets were forced to contemplate a difficult spring schedule in future years. The Astros would make an ideal Grapefruit League partner for the Mets, because they are moving to the American League in 2013 (Mets pitchers often complain about facing divisional opponents too often in exhibition games).
“I would like to see more teams on this side of the state for sure,” Collins said. “No disrespect to the Marlins or Cardinals or the Nationals, but you get tired of seeing those same faces every day.”
BYRDAK PITCHES
Tim Byrdak, recovering from arthroscopic knee surgery, made his first appearance in a minor league game on Saturday. Byrdak allowed two runs on one hit in one inning, and threw 14 pitches. Barring a setback, the lefthander will either be ready for Opening Day, or miss the first few games of the season.
TORRES PLAYS AGAIN
Andres Torres (calf) played in a minor league game for the second consecutive day. “He said he felt very good today,” Collins said. “He hit two ground balls and ran very well to first base. Good signs.” The Mets have not yet determined if Torres will be ready for the start of the season.