Mets win Opener of Exhibition Season

Carlos Beltran was the latest player to be involved in the FBI investigation into Dr. Galea. He was questioned last week he revealed today. He said that he did get treatment from him for his knee but never had anything injected into him. It appears that he has been cleared as was Jose Reyes. The Mets had their grapefruit league opener today and got off to a great start with a 4-2 win over the Braves. I know it is exhibition but they want to get that winning feeling going early. Nelson Figueroa started and allowed 2 hits and 2 walks over 2 innings. He struck out the side in the second inning and did not allow a run. Elmer Dessens came on in relief and allowed a run on 2 hits and then was hit on the leg by a line drive and had to leave the game. Bobby Livingston who is a non roster invitee replaced Dessens and pitched 2 2/3 effective innings. He struck out four and got the win, which I am sure made him feel good as he is a long shot that is trying to open some eyes. Top prospect Ike Davis had a couple of hits including a double. Ryota Igarashi came on in the ninth and got the save in his first North American action of his career. Jerry Manuel appeared on WFAN today and said that Jon Niese is the front runner to be the fifth starter. He also said Daniel Murphy is the front runner to be the first baseman with Mike Jacobs being a good power bat for the bench. He also sees Angel Pagan leading the race for center fielder until Carlos Beltran gets back.