First or last, Murphy would take anywhere in the lineup

--Although it remains unlikely at this point, INF Daniel Murphy said he would be happy to bat leadoff for the Mets if asked. "If I am hitting first, that means I am in the lineup," Murphy said. "That's a good sign for me."

--The Mets officially announced that they will revive Banner Day, a Shea Stadium tradition, before their game against the Padres on Sunday, May 27. Fans are invited to make homemade signs out of bed sheets and bring them to Citi Field.

--The Mets aim to sell their first batch of 10 minority ownership shares by the end of February, according to a Newsday report, not by the end of January, as the club had originally announced. The New York Times later reported that team-owned cable network SportsNet New York plans to purchase four shares at a total cost of $80 million.

--Although their Major League depth chart is mostly set, the Mets remain in the market for a left-handed hitting outfielder. Mike Baxter and Adam Loewen are in line to compete for the fifth outfielder's spot, both reporting to camp on minor league contracts.

--Former Mets reliever Taylor Buchholz does not plan to pitch next season. Buchholz sat out the final four months of last season after announcing that he was battling clinical depression.

BY THE NUMBERS
24 -- Career games 2B Daniel Murphy has played at the position. Murphy boasts more big-league experience at first base, third base and left field.

QUOTE TO NOTE
"For me, I see nothing but upside. Maybe I am ever the optimist." -- Mets 2B Daniel Murphy on the Mets' chances in 2012.

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