Daniel Murphy still expected to start season on disabled list

JUPITER, Fla. -- Second baseman Daniel Murphy, who has been sidelined all spring by an intercostal strain, took some batting practice on Friday. Still, he appears more likely to begin the year on the DL.

"We have a conversation this morning," Collins said. "He said 'I'll be ready by opening day.' I said 'well, let's talk about that next Wednesday or Thursday."

Collins has said that Murphy must play by the weekend to begin the season with the team. However, he's not scheduled for action on Saturday.

Mets pitching prospect Rafael Montero will start on Saturday against the Nationals. Matt Harvey pitches Sunday against the Tigers while lefty Aaron Laffey makes the start against the Cardinals in a split-squad game. Righty Dillon Gee will pitch on Monday against the Braves.