The Mets tied the Atlanta Braves, 2-2, on Thursday afternoon as their spring training slate continued.
Here are the takeaways…
– Mike Vasilone of the Mets’ top pitching prospects, got the start against a Braves lineup that was full of most of their expected regulars.
Vasil allowed a two-run homer to Matt Olsonbut was impressive overall — especially considering he has never pitched above A-ball.
The 23-year-old struck out three — including Olson and Ronald Acuna Jr.while allowing six hits and walking none in three innings.
– Pete Alonsoplaying his first game since returning from the World Baseball Classic, went 0-for-4 with a strikeout.
– Darin Ruf roped a double to left-center field his first time up and walked in his second plate appearance. He finished 1-for-2 as he raised his average to .160.
– Eduardo Escobar had a sacrifice fly his first time up but went hitless in his other four at-bats. He is batting .115 this spring.
– Tomas Nido hit a double to center field that almost left the ballpark as his strong offensive spring continued. He finished 1-for-3.
– Reliever Grant Hartwig twirled an impressive perfect inning, striking out one. Hartwig, who signed as an undrafted free agent following the 2021 MLB Draft, could be a bullpen option at some point this season.
Highlights
What’s next
The Mets travel to play the Tampa Bay Rays on Friday at 1:05 pm