Mets Notes from Spring Training: 3/11

News and notes will be emerging throughout the day.  This post will be updated as new pieces of information come in (newest at the top)…

• Kirk Nieuwenhuis (bruised knee) is expected to resume baseball activities tomorrow.

• In his return to game action, Jenrry Mejia gained velocity (as high as 96 MPH), but more importantly rediscovered the cutting action on his fastball.

• Jordany Valdespin was hit square in the groin on a 94 MPH fastball from Justin Verlander during the fifth inning of today’s game.  He fell to the ground after being hit and was replaced by a pinch runner.  He later told Adam Rubin that he was fine, and laughed it off.

Feb 26, 2013; Jupiter, FL, USA; New York Mets relief pitcher

(32) throws in the first inning during a spring training game against the Miami Marlins at Roger Dean Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Steve Mitchell-USA TODAY Sports

• Terry Collins all but confirmed that Jeremy Hefner will be the fill-in for the rotation in the event Johan Santana isn’t ready to start the season.

• Jenrry Mejia is scheduled to pitch today.  It’ll be his first appearance since he was shut down with a thyroid issue.

• The Mets travel to Lakeland to take on the Tigers this afternoon at 1:05 PM.  The game won’t be televised or on local radio, but can be followed via MLB Gameday.  Here’s the lineup:

1. Jordany Valdespin, 2B
2. Ruben Tejada, SS
3. Ike Davis, 1B
4. Lucas Duda, LF
5. Mike Baxter, RF
6. John Buck, C
7. Travis d’Arnaud, DH
8. Matt den Dekker, CF
9. Brandon Hicks, 3B

LHP Jonathon Niese gets the start for the Mets.

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