Kevin Pillar stakes early claim to a piece of the Mets outfield

Observations from the Mets’ spring training game Wednesday:

Pillar of strength

Kevin Pillar, playing center field and batting leadoff, went 2-for-2 with a walk in the Mets’ 14-9 exhibition loss to the Cardinals at Roger Dean Chevrolet Stadium in Jupiter, Fla.

The other Jacob

Jacob Barnes threw 35 pitches in a third inning that concluded with two outs because of pitch-count restrictions. The right-hander allowed three earned runs on three hits and two walks in the inning.

Caught my eye

Tomas Nido committed an error on a pickoff attempt of Nolan Arenado at first base. Nido’s throw sailed into right field.

Thursday’s schedule

David Peterson will face the Nationals in Port St. Lucie. Jeurys Familia, Dellin Betances and Trevor May are among the other scheduled pitchers for the Mets.