The Mets’ big shot injuries have opened the door for Tommy Hunter
port st. Lucy – Tommy Hunter came into spring training as a prospect for the Mets’ starting base, and his odds of sticking out have increased with the team’s recent string of injuries.
the most we can talk about, Edwin Diaz is expected to miss the season.
last week, Sam Conrod Bryce Montes de Oca has also been diagnosed with injuries that will put them both on the injured list to start the season.
Hunter, 36, is ready for another chance after returning last year from career-threatening back surgery.
Diaz’s absence will change bowling roles, but Hunter does not see use in higher leverage positions as a necessity for him.
“I like being the first off the field,” Hunter said Saturday. “Fifth [inning], IV Sometimes, I don’t mind. I can do it. I don’t know how to say it. Sometimes waiting for the end of the game can be difficult. This is why you see guys who don’t come out on the playing field until the fifth or sixth inning. More than once I have to be there and ready to go.”
It is this sense of humility that made Hunter a Buck Showalter favorite from their combined time with the Orioles from 2011 to 2015.
Last season Hunter appeared in 18 games for the Mets after arriving on a minor league contract mid-season and ran a 2.42 ERA. He agreed to another minor deal with the Mets after the season.
“I love what I do and [Showalter] “I know what I’m good at,” Hunter said. “I trust him and I’m not afraid.”
David Peterson is slated to start and Taylor Miguel trails for four runs Sunday in a quarterback appearance.
Both are vying for the Mets’ tournament opener Created by the absence of Jose Quintana The left-hander is expected to miss at least half of the season after undergoing bone grafting surgery on Friday on his left fifth rib.
Miguel and Peterson have had solid seasons in the Grapefruit League.
Right-handed Miguel has run to a 1.08 ERA in three games this spring.
A left-hander, Peterson allowed no more than three runs, spanning eight innings.
The Mets selected Ronnie Mauricio and Joey Lucchesi to Triple-A Syracuse. Abraham Almonte and Gaylen Davis were taken to minor league camp.
Group bonding activity is on the agenda Sunday night, when the Mets gather for a lobster boil arranged by Max Scherzer.
earlier this month, The Mets held a talent show which garnered largely positive reviews.
