PORT ST. LUCIE — Drew Smith and Tyler Bashlor benefited from the Mets’ early nosedive last season, receiving extended major league opportunities, and this spring both will attempt to show they belong on an Opening Day roster.
With two or three openings in the bullpen — depending upon how many relievers the Mets decide to carry — manager Mickey Callaway figures to keep a close eye on Smith and Bashlor in particular this spring to gauge their progression.
The 25-year-old Smith appeared in 27 games for the Mets last season and posted a 3.54 ERA and 1.