Mike Pelfrey has another strong outing for Mets
Mike Pelfrey warms up between innings during a spring training game. (April 3, 2012) Credit: AP
PORT ST. LUCIE, Fla. -- At this rate, maybe the front office will be fans of Mike Pelfrey. Warned by Terry Collins two weeks ago that the club's decision-makers were getting impatient, Pelfrey turned in another strong performance in Tuesday's 7-6 victory over the Yankees.
Pelfrey allowed two hits and one run -- Nick Swisher's homer -- in his final four-inning tuneup. Five of the outs came on the ground and five were strikeouts, another positive step in what began as a frightful spring training.
Pelfrey finished with a 7.62 ERA. When asked to rate his Grapefruit League performance, Pelfrey replied, "Normal."
"I think I had to get going a little earlier," Pelfrey said. "It think it was maybe a little bit of panic and stuff. I'm glad I did because I feel like I ended on a good note. I feel good, I feel strong. When the ball's coming out, I have an idea of where it's going, which means I'll be able to locate my fastball."
Collins suggested that the pitcher made big strides in the past two weeks. "He's happy," Collins said. "He felt great today, he threw the ball terrific. The ball's really got sink, and with the changes he's made, his presence on the mound. I saw flash one time at 97, so that's really a good sign."
Mets, Niese progressing
A person familiar with the situation said that the Mets and the agent for Jonathon Niese were making progress in negotiations that are expected to lead to a new contract for the lefthander.
The announcement could happen before tomorrow's season opener at Citi Field, but nothing has been completed yet. Niese confirmed the negotiations Monday but Sandy Alderson refused to comment.
Extra bases
Collins said that he will use his Opening Day lineup again for today's game at Steinbrenner Field, but those players will be lifted early . . . David Wright went 2-for-2 and also made a nice defensive play ranging toward the line for a grounder and flinging the ball to first on the run. Jason Bay went 1-for-4 with a single but has to earn an RBI in 18 games. Daniel Murphy and Josh Thole each had two hits.
