Coleman: Rain Dampers Mets' Reyes Reunion

By Ed Coleman
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Rain put a damper on the reunion.

Jose Reyes finally met up with his former teammates on Thursday. But after just one at-bat -- the rains came in the third inning -- Jose was done for the day, despite the fact that the game resumed after a delay of just under an hour.

Reyes grounded back to R.A. Dickey leading off the bottom of the 1st inning in his only plate appearance, and said afterward that it wasn't a big deal facing the Mets down here.

Yes, Jose, the first meeting at Citi Field will be a different story. Still, it was enjoyable for him to see some familiar friendly faces.

Reyes was also asked about his relationship with his friend and current teammate Hanley Ramirez, who had to move to third base to accommodate Jose.

Mets manager Terry Collins, who was ejected from the game for arguing an interference call against Jordany Valdespin, met up with Reyes prior to the game.

But to Collins, neither Reyes nor his ejection was the story of the game.

Dickey's day was cut short by the rain as well, but he retired all 6 batters he faced, striking out one with a dancing knuckleball. He finished his day by throwing another 5 innings in the bullpen, good for 75 pitches. Dickey was asked whether it was strange facing Reyes as the first batter.

Dickey was also asked whether Jose's presence in the clubhouse will be missed.

Manny Acosta and Bobby Parnell continued to pitch well out of the Mets bullpen. Each gave up a hit, Acosta striking out 3 in two innings, Parnell with 2 strikeouts in one inning. The Mets fell to 3-8 though with the loss to Miami.

Jason Bay continued his resurgence, singling and doubling against Marlin ace Josh Johnson in two at-bats. Bay, who started 1-11, lifted his average to .267.

Johan Santana takes his next step on Friday when he faces the Tigers and Rick Porcello in Port St. Lucie. Santana is expected to throw 4 innings against Detroit.

The Mets optioned or re-assigned 13 players to minor league camp on Thursday, including top pitching prospects Matt Harvey and Jeurys Familia. The Mets' spring roster now sits at 42.

C U soon
Eddie C.

Mets fans, how will you greet Reyes when he returns to Flushing as a Marlin? Sound off below...

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• Miami Marlins