Port St. Lucie, FL (SportsNetwork.com) - Dillon Gee began his preparation to take the rotation spot of the injured Zack Wheeler on Thursday and tossed 3 2/3 shutout innings as the Mets beat the Astros 3-1 in Grapefruit League action.

Gee allowed two hits and walked a pair in his second spring start. The right- hander was preparing to work in relief until it was learned this week that Wheeler needs Tommy John surgery and will be out for the season.

Michael Cuddyer hit his third homer of the spring and Curtis Granderson added his second home run for the Mets, who were playing with a split squad.

Jose Altuve had a hit and starting pitcher Collin McHugh allowed two runs on four hits over four innings.