Mets deny security cuts

VIERA, Fla. — The Mets are pushing back against a report claiming that the team reduced security at Citi Field due to budget cuts.

DNA info, citing “internal documents,” reported Thursday that the team dramatically cut stadium security – by as much as 29% — from 2009-13, as the team became mired in financial issues and the Bernie Madoff lawsuit.

In a statement, the Mets said, “There are numerous inaccuracies as to what’s been reported. While the details of our security are by their very nature confidential, the security of all who enter Citi Field is a top priority.”

The Mets did not specify what elements of the story were inaccurate.

RAIN MAY DELAY HARVEY

Matt Harvey is scheduled to throw about 80 pitches on Friday against the Marlins in Jupiter, pitching coach Dan Warthen said.

One possible hitch: Rain is in the forecast, and team insiders said that the Mets will be very careful about starting Harvey is sloppy conditions. If the game is rained out or Harvey is scratched, he will simply pitch on Saturday in Port St. Lucie.

NIESE TWEAK DOES THE JOB

Jon Niese faced Bartolo Colon in an intrasquad game Thursday morning. Niese said that he had felt some shoulder fatigue this spring, but felt better after tweaking his delivery. “It actually felt a lot better,” he said. “I wasn’t fatigued at the end.”

MURPHY RUNS, FLORES PLAYS

Daniel Murphy (hamstring) resumed running on Thursday, and the team still has not ruled out Opening Day. . . . Wilmer Flores (bruised foot) returned to game action, as expected. . . . Vic Black (shoulder) threw on flat ground, and is also still a possibility for the Opening Day roster. . . . The Mets continue to scout and talk to other teams about acquiring lefty relief help before the start of the season.