Cabrera: The Mets' shortstop has spent the past week with Leones del Caracas of the Venezuelan League, where he is 0-for-16 with five strikeouts. No matter. This is merely a tune-up for Cabrera, who aims to play for Venezuela in the Classic. Cabrera spent most of last season battling a chronic knee injury, so the Mets will keep a close eye on Cabrera's health this winter.
Familia: After prosecutors dropped charges on Familia last week in a New Jersey court, he flew down to the Dominican Republic to join Gigantes del Cibao. Familia threw a live bullpen session on Thursday, according to Gigantes' official website, with an eye toward appearing in his first game next week.