Jacob deGrom (back) throws simulated game for Mets

New York Mets starting pitcher Jacob deGrom (back) threw about 30 pitches over two innings in a simulated game on Tuesday.

What It Means:

Barring any setbacks, deGrom will likely make his first Grapefruit League start on Sunday. He may not be on the Mets' mound for Opening Day, but it doesn't sound like the 29-year-old right-hander will start the year on the disabled list.

numberFire's models project deGrom to record a 3.63 ERA, 1.22 WHIP, and 28.4 strikeout percentage while going 14-10 across 201 innings this season.