Morning Papers

Kaz Breaks Out Of Funk March 8 New York Post (registration required): "Matsui, who finished 2-for-5, is still only 2-for-14 this spring, and the other second base candidates have fared better at the plate early on." Delgado sits with elbow tendinitis March 8 Newsday: "Carlos Delgado's sore left elbow kept him out of Puerto Rico's lineup against Panama last night, but the Mets first baseman could play later this week." Martinez might sit out Opening Day March 8 Journal News: "For the first time, the Mets yesterday acknowledged the possibility that Pedro Martinez will not be ready to pitch Opening Day." Who's That Masked Man? Mets Pitchers Will Find Out March 8 New York Times (registration required): "Lo Duca, on his third major league team, says it typically takes a few weeks of constant interaction to feel a kinship with a pitcher." Diaz seeks road to success March 8 Newark Star-Ledger (registration required): "Victor Diaz will have to take the 2 1/2-hour bus ride this morning, one of only two players who have ever started a game for the Mets to make that trip. It comes with the territory." Mets hope players are what they eat March 8 Journal News: "Those within earshot can hear the sizzle of chicken on a searing grill. For those not near the entrance to the Mets' clubhouse there is blue smoke and the unmistakable smell of barbeque."