NL East preview: Preseason look at New York Mets

SHAMUS CLANCY, Daily News Staff Writer clancys@phillynews.com Posted: Thursday, February 12, 2015, 3:01 AM

Fourth in a series of NL East previews)

Taking a look at the New York Mets:

Manager: Terry Collins

Last 5 years: 2014: 79-83, second place (tied); 2013: 74-88, third place; 2012: 74-88, fourth place; 2011: 77-85, fourth place; 2010: 79-83, fourth place

Additions: OF Michael Cuddyer, OF John Mayberry Jr.

Losses: RHP Daisuke Matsuzaka, OF Bobby Abreu

What to expect: The Mets havent been to the playoffs since their 2006 NLCS loss to the Cardinals and have posted six consecutive losing seasons. Although Flushings Finest likely will hover around .500 once again, there is reason for optimism in the years to come.

Righthander Matt Harvey returns after sitting out the entire 2014 season while rehabilitating after Tommy John surgery. According to ESPN New Yorks Adam Rubin, Mets general manager Sandy Alderson says Harvey likely will start the Mets home opener on April 13 against the Phillies.

Harvey, 25, was an All-Star in 2013 in only his second big-league season, creating a Mets-themed buzz around the Big Apple similar to Dwight Goodens NL Cy Young Award year as a 20-year-old in 1985. Harvey placed fourth in the NL Cy Young voting 2 years ago, posting a 2.27 ERA, striking out 9.6 batters per nine innings.

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NL East preview: Preseason look at New York Mets