Mets' Niese to start opening day; Santana to open on DL

Author: By The Sports Xchange
Published On: Mar 21 2013 05:25:20 PM EDT   Updated On: Mar 21 2013 05:25:20 PM EDT

New York Mets starter Johan Santana will open the season on the disabled list, manager Terry Collins announced Thursday.

Collins followed that by officially naming lefty Jon Niese to start opening day.

Santana hasn't appeared in a game this spring, as he continues to build arm strength. Neise, 26, posted a 3.40 ERA in 30 starts last season. This will be his first career opening day assignment.

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