NL East Notebook: Harvey to face hitters Friday; Escobar confident at 2nd

Every Thursday, theScore's MLB editors will bring you a roundup of everything you need to know from around the division with the NL East Notebook.

Atlanta Braves

Fighting words. Nick Markakis is taking shots at his former club, telling Bob Nightengale that the Baltimore Orioles broke off talks with the veteran outfielder due to his impending neck surgery.

Wandy turning back the clock? The Braves signed Wandy Rodriguez to compete for the fifth spot in their rotation this spring, but manager Fredi Gonzalez has his sights set even higher. He's optimistic Rodriguez can rediscover his old form.

Gomes here to win. Newcomer Jonny Gomes has heard the prognosticators write off the Braves after an offseason of rebuild. He said the last time that happened with a team he played for, the Oakland Athletics hung a banner.

Miami Marlins

Keeping outfielders fresh. Giancarlo Stanton wants to play every day after signing a record-breaking contract in the offseason, but Marlins manager Mike Redmond is protecting his investment.

Mentor, but not old. Ichrio Suzuki said he's looking forward to bringing 14 years of major-league experience to the young and talented Marlins. Just don't call him old.

New York Mets

Syndergaard ready for prime time. The Mets' pitching staff is six arms deep, and that's not including 22-year-old Noah Syndergaard. Marc Carig writes that the hard thrower is ready to shed his prospect label and earn his place on the big-league roster.

Harvey to pitch March 6? The Mets have reportedly scheduled Matt Harvey to take the mound against the Detroit Tigers on March 6 - his first game action since Aug. 24, 2013. In the meantime, Harvey will face hitters for the first time Friday in Florida.

Shortstop competition this spring. Mets manager Terry Collins wants Ruben Tejada to compete for the starting shortstop job at camp - even though he's already given it to Wilmer Flores. Collins is trying to get in Tejada's head, reports Anthony DiComo.

Philadelphia Phillies

Lee says elbow feels good. Cliff Lee threw to hitters Wednesday for the first time since since being shut down with an elbow injury last July and reported no discomfort. Lee, who made just 13 starts for the Phillies in 2014, is owed $25 million this season.

Howard impresses Sandberg. Ryan Howard is putting in work this spring, says manager Ryne Sandberg, and so far the early returns are encouraging.

Washington Nationals

Escobar excited about move to second. Nationals infielder Yunel Escobar said he's OK with moving off shortstop and tells Jon Heyman he's determined to become one of the best second basemen in the National League.

Harper confident Nats will win title. Bryce Harper said he's prepared to bring a World Series championship to Washington, no matter how long it takes. He's confident the Nationals' acquisition of Max Scherzer expedites the process.