A gold star and purple heart go to Mets legend Darryl Strawberry, who ignored doctor’s orders and flew from his St. Louis home to be at Dwight Gooden’s No. 16 retirement ceremony a month after having heart surgery following a heart attack.

Friends did convince Straw to not stay the whole game as they hoped to keep the excitement down and crowds mostly at a distance. Straw is said to be feeling fine now, though he’s expected to cut back on his schedule as a traveling minister.

The hope is that J.D. Martinez can make his Mets debut when the team returns home next week.

Jeff McNeil’s coming around. But something to keep in mind if the Mets become a seller: The Mariners always liked his versatility and hitting ability.

The Mets have been boosted by two guys who didn’t make the Mets out of camp: Jose Butto and Reed Garrett. Depth is a strength.

I am going to miss John Sterling. He’s a legend with a great voice, vast knowledge and big heart.