PORT ST. LUCIE — Noah Syndergaard was asked Thursday if he could identify the most recent Mets starting pitcher to receive consecutive Opening Day assignments.
“Johan Santana,” Syndergaard correctly responded. “Where is my prize?”
Syndergaard received word from manager Mickey Callaway this week that he will get the ball on March 29 against the Cardinals at Citi Field, but was hardly surprised by the selection given that last year’s ace, Jacob deGrom, is slightly behind schedule after incurring lower-back stiffness earlier in camp.
DeGrom is scheduled to pitch the second game of the season.
“Jake had a tremendous year last year and was the backbone of our pitching staff,” Syndergaard said.