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Mets starting pitcher Jonathon Niese throws against the Boston Red Sox during a spring training baseball game at Tradition Field.

(Steve Mitchell-USA TODAY Sports)

PORT ST. LUCIE, Fla. — Jon Niese has a new arm angle this spring. The reason is obvious, if complicated.

"Because my shoulder is healthy," he said. "Last year I was just trying to find an angle where it didn't hurt. This year, I'm 100 percent healthy so I'm able to actually work on my mechanics and have proper mechanics."

That is no small feat for Niese. Last year, the Mets pitcher's spring began with a sputter. He underwent two MRIs by Opening Day and started the season on the disabled list. Last month, he said it could have been better to miss the whole first month.

Now, Niese is without issue and focused on preparing for the season. He pitched 2 2/3 innings Sunday, allowing an earned run in 52 pitches after finding trouble in the third against the Red Sox.

Niese is using this month to tinker and tweak his arsenal of pitches.

"Cutting loose on everything," he says. "My cutter and curveball need a little bit more work but there's plenty of time for that."

His fastball command left him late in his outing but Niese attributed that to fatigue this early in spring. It was just his first Grapefruit League start.

Niese will be a part of a starting rotation the Mets are hoping can take them to the postseason. After six losing seasons, the 28-year-old sees the potential for a turnaround.

I'm excited, especially looking at all the talent we have," Niese said.

"The sky is the limit for us this year as far as the pitching staff goes. I know our hitting has gotten better. I'm really excited about it."

Spring Training 2015:

• As Defensive Shifts Become Divisive, One Prominent Mets Pitcher Protests Too

• Meet Michael Cuddyer: A magician, a pitchman, a scout's dream and the Virginia boy who never left home

Mike Vorkunov may be reached at mvorkunov@njadvancemedia.com. Follow him on Twitter @Mike_Vorkunov. Find NJ.com Mets on Facebook.