The Mets, who are hosting their first version of fan fest in nearly five years on Saturday, released their star-studded lineup for the day. Amazin’ Day, where fans will be able to hear from and meet current and former Mets players, will have some of the biggest names in the franchise’s history available. Some of those names include Mike Piazza, Francisco Lindor, Juan Soto, Mookie Wilson, Edwin Díaz, Mark Vientos, and Brandon Nimmo. It should be an exciting day in Queens as the club will also be releasing its new road uniforms for the 2025 season.

Brad Penner-Imagn Images

Latest Mets News

Jeff McNeil says he’s “a little surprised” Pete Alonso is still a free agent and hopes his “good buddy” re-signs with the Mets, per Anthony Rieber of Newsday.

The Mets announced that they will be revealing a brand new road jersey at Mets “Amazin’ Day” on Saturday. 

Latest MLB News

Former Phillies general manager Ruben Amaro Jr. will launch a hitting competition called “Sluggball”, per The AP. The competition will focus entirely on situational hitting, with no fielding or running required.

The Los Angeles Dodgers are shopping some of their surplus of players in order to get add their new acquisitions to the 40-man roster, per Bob Nightengale of USA Today. One player possibly on the chopping block is reliever Ryan Brasier, who is owed $4.5 million this season. 

On MLB Network, Jon Heyman of the NY Post went into detail on how the Toronto Blue Jays could be an ideal destination for former Cy Young Award winner Max Scherzer.

Former all-star shortstop Tim Anderson signed a minor league deal with the Los Angeles Angels, per Bob Nightengale of USA Today. 

The Cleveland Guardians signed former Met Paul Sewald to a one-year, $7 million deal with a mutual option for 2026.

The Oakland Athletics hired former World Series MVP and Athletics Hall of Famer Dave Stewart as a Special Assistant to Player Development for the 2025 season.

MLB Network will broadcast the 2025 Caribbean Series in English starting January 31.

Former Seattle Mariners pitching coach Bobby Cuellar passed away at 72 years old. 

Infielder Jon Berti agreed to a deal with the Chicago Cubs on a contract, per Robert Murray of FanSided.

Latest on MMO

David Wright stays on the HOF ballot!

Billy Wagner finally gets the call!

Four Mets prospects land on Baseball America’s top 100 list.

On This Date in Mets History

1975: Ralph Kiner is selected to the National Baseball Hall of Fame in his final year of eligibility.

Born on This Date: Robert Carson (1989), Charlie Greene (1971), Bob Moorhead (1938).

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In Wright’s first year of eligibility, he received 6.2% of the vote. This year is a 2% increase from a year ago. Anything below 5% would’ve dropped him from the ballot altogether. With two years of above 5%, Wright’s further voting candidacy will be examined as the years go on.

Wright’s Case

In his prime, Wright was one of the best at his position. From 2005-2012, Wright compiled 190 home runs, 778 RBIs, 1,349 hits, and slashed .301/.384/.505. During that stretch, Wright made the All-Star team six times, won a Gold Glove and Silver Slugger twice, and was an MVP candidate, especially in 2007, when he finished fourth in the voting. These eight seasons displayed Wright’s path to a potential trip to Cooperstown. It probably would’ve been automatic. His injuries from 2013 to 2018 halted his career. 

That stretch of eight years were some of the best from a player during that period. It’s something for voters to look at as his eligibility continues heading into next year. Wright going up a bit is a nice sign, but it still will be a tough road for the Mets captain to eventually land in Cooperstown. For now, the Mets will retire Wright’s number this season, and he’ll be enshrined into the Mets Hall of Fame on the same day. 

The post David Wright Stays On Hall Of Fame Ballot appeared first on Metsmerized Online.

Ichiro Suzuki, CC Sabathia and Billy Wagner are all headed to Cooperstown. After 10 years of waiting, Wagner has finally made it, while Sabathia and Ichiro were elected on their first ballots with 86.8% and 99.7% of the vote, respectively. Ichiro missed being a unanimous selection by just one vote.

In addition, Carlos Beltran received 70.3% of the votes, keeping him on track toward Cooperstown, while David Wright earned 8.1%, ensuring his place on the ballot for another year.

Read MMO’s analysis of Tuesday’s events here.

Latest Mets News

Billy Wagner’s reaction to finally making the Hall of Fame was filmed. “Dreams do come true,” Wagner said.

Latest MLB News

Ichiro’s number will officially be retired by the Seattle Mariners, according to Bob Nightengale of USA Today. He joins Edgar Martinez (11), Ken Griffey Jr (24) and Jackie Robinson (42) as the only uniform numbers retired by the M’s.

Alden González and Jesse Rogers of ESPN “asked former teammates, opponents and other MLB greats to describe what it was like playing with, pitching to and simply witnessing Ichiro during his legendary career.” Read the full article here.

The Los Angeles Angels agreed to a one-year, $1.075 million deal with José Quijada for the 2025 season. The deal avoids arbitration and also gives the Angels a $3.75 million club option on Quijada for 2026. Previously, the southpaw filed for a $1.14 million salary while the Angels preferred a number closer to $975k.

The Yankees have named Preston Claiborne as their new assistant pitching coach after losing Desi Druschel to the Mets. Claiborne, 37, has no prior experience on an MLB coaching staff but brings three years of major league playing experience to the role. All other major coaches are returning, including former Mets skipper Luis Rojas, who will continue as the third base and outfield coach.

Latest on MMO

Patrick Glynn handpicked some teams who could look at Pete Alonso as a potential target.

Jack Ramsey looked at scenarios that could lead Alonso back to New York.

On This Date in Mets History

1996: The Mets send Eric Hiljus, Eric Ludwick, and Yudith Orozio to the St. Louis Cardinals for outfielder Bernard Gilkey. For the Mets, Gilkey was one of the few bright spots on a dreadful 1996 team. That season, he slashed .317/.393/.562, drove in 117 runs, and put up an impressive 8.1 bWAR.

2001: 1969 Miracle Met Tommie Agee passes away. Over five seasons, Agee received top 10 MVP votes twice and won a Gold Glove.

Born on This Date: Wayne Kirby (1964), Tyrone Taylor (1994).

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Wagner, eighth on the all-time saves list with 422 and sixth in Mets history with 101, earned 82.5% of the vote in his 10th and final chance on the Baseball Writers’ Association of America ballot, it was announced Tuesday. Players need 75 percent of the vote to be inducted into the Hall of Fame.

Carlos Beltrán, unfortunately, will have to wait.

Beltrán, a nine-time All-Star who accumulated 70.1 WAR over his 20-year career, received 70.3% of the vote in his third year on the ballot. That’s up from the 57.1% he earned last year.

Ichiro Suzuki (99.7%—all but one vote) and CC Sabathia (86.8%) were the two biggest vote-getters, both getting elected on their first ballot. Wagner, Suzuki, and Sabathia join Dick Allen and Dave Parker (voted in by committee) in the Hall of Fame class

David Wright earned 8.1% of the vote in his second year on the ballot up from 5.4% last year. Francisco Rodriguez earned 10.2% in his third year. Curtis Granderson, unfortunately, garnered less than 1% in his first year, meaning he’ll fall off the ballot. Players need 5% to remain on the ballot the following year.

Wagner Earns His Spot

Wagner posted a 2.31 ERA and 0.99 WHIP over 903 career innings while striking out 1,196 in 16 seasons. His career K% is 33.2 and his 11.92 K/9 is one of the best marks ever. The lefty came to the Mets as a free agent in 2006 (four years, $43 million) after 11 years in Houston and Philadelphia. He saved 40 games in his first year in New York with a 2.24 ERA and 1.10 WHIP. He had 94 strikeouts in 72.1 innings. He made the All-Star team seven times, including twice with the Mets in 2007-08.

Wagner was traded to the Red Sox in August 2009 for a couple of players to be named later and finished his career with the Braves in 2010.

Beltran Will Have to Wait… But Not Long

With 435 career home runs and 312 steals, Beltrán is one of five players in the 400 home run/300 stolen base club. The others are Willie Mays, Andre Dawson, Barry Bonds and Alex Rodriguez.

While Beltrán’s stats are Hall-worthy, he is likely losing support from some writers because of his admitted involvement in the Houston Astros’ sign-stealing scandal, which also cost him his job as Mets skipper in 2020 before he ever managed a game.

Still, with Beltrán gaining 70.3% this year, he has an excellent chance of reaching the 75 percent threshold soon, especially with a slew of names dropping off this year, and not a ton of great candidates getting added for the 2026 ballot.

The post Wagner Elected to Hall of Fame; Beltrán Falls Just Short appeared first on Metsmerized Online.

On January 21, the Baseball Writers’ Association of America will reveal their ballot results and any new entrees into the National Baseball Hall of Fame will be announced. To be elected, those on the ballot must receive at least 75% of the vote. On this year’s ballot, there are 28 former players.

The Ballot

Of these 28, 14 were on the ballot last year. Relief pitcher Billy Wagner (73.8%), outfielder Andruw Jones (61.6%), and outfielder Carlos Beltrán (57.1%) are the three returnees on the ballot that were the closest to being elected last season. This is Wagner’s 10th-and-final year on the ballot. He must break the 75% threshold this season to be elected, as he will no longer be on the ballot starting next season.

Other notable returnees to the ballot are Álex Rodríguez (34.8%), Manny Ramírez (32.5%), Chase Utley (28.8%), Bobby Abreu (14.8%), Francisco Rodriguez (7.8%), and David Wright (6.2%).

The full list is below which includes percentage of votes from 2024 and number of seasons on the ballot:

• Billy Wagner, (73.8%), Enters 10th-and-final year on ballot
• Andruw Jones, (61.6%), 8th year
• Carlos Beltrán, (57.1%), 3rd year
• Álex Rodríguez, (34.8%), 4th year
• Manny Ramírez, (32.5%), 9th year
• Chase Utley, (28.8%), 2nd year
• Omar Vizquel, (17.7%), 8th year
• Bobby Abreu, (14.8%), 6th year
• Jimmy Rollins, (14.8%), 4th year
• Andy Pettitte, (13.5%), 7th year
• Mark Buehrle, (8.3%), 5th year
• Francisco Rodríguez, (7.8%) 3rd year
• Torii Hunter, (7.3%),  5th year
• David Wright, (6.2%), 2nd year

To remain on the ballot next season, a player must receive at least five percent of the votes.

In addition to the above, there are 14 new individuals being added to the ballot in 2025:

• Carlos González
• Curtis Granderson
• Félix Hernández
• Adam Jones
• Ian Kinsler
• Russell Martin
• Brian McCann
• Dustin Pedroia
• Hanley Ramírez
• Fernando Rodney
• CC Sabathia
• Ichiro Suzuki
• Troy Tulowitzki
• Ben Zobrist

These new candidates can remain on the ballot for up to 10 years. They must achieve at least five percent of the vote, yearly, to remain on the ballot. If any receive at least 75%, they will be enshrined into the Hall of Fame.

Derek Jeter, Álex Rodríguez. (Photo by Rob Schumacher, The Arizona Republic)

Who Deserves To Be In?

When the writers who have the honor to vote do so, they are only able to vote for a maximum 10 players. They are not required to use any of their votes if they do not want to, however, they are limited to 10 votes maximum.

With that being said, who are those who are the most deserving to be in? A good starting point, before going position-by-position and taking into account other  attributes, is sorting each of the individuals by wins above replacement (WAR).

Note, the below is sorted by total bWAR.

• Álex Rodríguez, 117.6
• Carlos Beltrán, 70.1
• Manny Ramírez, 69.3
• Chase Utley, 64.5
• Andruw Jones, 62.7
• CC Sabathia, 62.3
• Bobby Abreu, 60.2
• Andy Pettitte, 60.2
• Ichiro Suzuki, 60.0
• Mark Buehrle, 59.1
• Ian Kinsler, 54.1
• Dustin Pedoria, 51.9
• Torii Hunter, 50.7
• Félix Hernández, 49.7
• David Wright, 49.2
• Jimmy Rollins, 47.6
• Curtis Granderson, 47.2
• Omar Vizquel, 45.6
• Troy Tulowitzki, 44.5
• Ben Zobrist, 44.5
• Russell Martin, 38.8
• Hanley Ramírez, 38.0
• Adam Jones, 32.6
• Brian McCann, 32.0
• Billy Wagner, 27.7
• Carlos González, 24.4
• Francisco Rodríguez, 24.2
• Fernando Rodney, 7.4

Right off the bat, one would assume the first three are worthy. However, each individual have some type of “ethical” issue voters take issue with. Rodríguez and Ramírez both performance-enhancing drug questions and Beltran was involved with the Astros sign-stealing scandal. However, based purely off on-field performance all three certainly appear worthy of the Hall of Fame.

The next chunk of 60.0-plus WAR pose a lot of interesting questions. The one with the least amount of question marks is Ichiro Suzuki. He ranks 25th all-time in hits at 3,089. This despite not coming to North America and Major League Baseball until his aged-27 season. Of the 33 players in history with last least 3,000 hits, Rafael Palmeiro, Álex Rodríguez, Albert Pujols, Miguel Cabrera, and Pete Rose are the only not in the Hall of Fame. Of those five, three have potential ethical issues and the other two have not yet become eligible. It is a safe bet Ichiro will be Hall of Fame bound at some point, if not this season.

Chase Utley.

Mets nemesis Chase Utley is an interesting case. His 64.5 bWAR is not far off the average bWAR of the 20 second baseman currently in the Hall of Fame (69.5). Not to mention, his seven-year peak WAR (WAR7) is comfortably above the average of those 20 second baseman Hall of Famers (49.3 versus 44.4 average). Lastly, his JAWS rating (a measurement created by Jay Jaffe to value an individual’s Hall of Fame worthiness) is right on par with the average of the second baseman who currently occupy Cooperstown (56.9 versus 57.0 average). Whether Mets fans want to hear it or not, Utley, a terrific all-around player, has a very compelling argument to be enshrined in the Hall of Fame.

Utley’s case, on play a lone, is a lot more compelling than that of fellow second baseman Ian Kinsler and Dustin Pedroia, though, a compelling case for each can be constructed. Both Kinsler and Pedroia have WAR, WAR7, and JAW ratings not terribly far off the average of the other second baseman in the Hall of Fame. Maybe down the road, especially Pedroia, they may be considered seriously.

Andruw Jones, who was the second-highest vote-getter on last year’s ballot, has one of the more compelling cases on the ballot. According to defensive WAR, Jones was arguably the best defensive center fielder in baseball history. To go along with that, he hit 434 home runs; the fourth-most among center fielders. His overall bWAR number is a little off the average of the 19 center fielder Hall of Famers (62.7 versus 71.5 average), however, that is largely due to a five-year stretch of really poor offensive performances to end his career. His peak years (WAR7) are above the average for Hall of Fame center fielders and his JAWS rating is not too far off either. The 10-time Gold Glove winner certainly has a great case for Cooperstown.

CC Sabathia, Bobby Abreu, and Andy Pettitte round out the reminder of the 60.0-plus bWAR group. Sabathia may have a case at some point, especially given he was a southpaw. However, as it relates to starting pitchers, his WAR, JAWS, and WAR7 are all a decent bit off the averages of the 66 Hall of Fame starters. The same goes for Pettitte whose numbers are slightly off of Sabathia’s overall. Based off his positional peers, a pretty compelling case can be made for Abreu. On offensive performances alone, the 15 right fielders ahead of Abreu in offensive WAR are all in the Hall of Fame. However, Abreu struggled so much defensively his overall WAR, JAWS, and WAR7 numbers are all a decent bit off from his positional peers’ averages.

Photo Courtesy of CBSSports.com

Billy Wagner came within 1.2% of being elected in 2024. His last chance is this year and his candidacy is an interesting one. The Ferrum College alumni ranks eighth all-time in saves at 422. He also posted a sparkling 2.31 ERA, including a 1.43 mark as a 38-year-old in his final season. However, his WAR and JAWS are a decent bit off the averages and both John Franco and Francisco Rodríguez, who have more saves than Wagner overall, are not in the Hall of Fame. Joe Nathan, who has a very comparable WAR, WAR7, and JAWS profile as Wagner, was not elected to the Hall of Fame either. Though, Wagner has a much-better ERA than each and had tremendous strikeout numbers. Specially, his career ERA+ would only trail Mariano Rivera among Hall of Fame relievers.

Of the rest on the ballot, not many more staggeringly compelling cases can be made. Of course, being a former Met legend, it would be nice to see David Wright at least stay on the ballot. Being enshrined to the actual Hall of Fame is likely a long shot, as his WAR, WAR7, and JAW metrics are well off the average of the 18 third baseman Hall of Famers. Unfortunately, injuries cutting his career short ended what once seemed like a Hall-of-Fame trajectory.

My Ballot

If I was lucky enough to have a vote, for whatever it is worth, here is how my ballot would look:

• Álex Rodríguez
• Carlos Beltrán
• Manny Ramírez
• Andruw Jones
• Ichiro Suzuki
• Billy Wagner
• Chase Utley

Each of the above, based purely on on-field performances and value, deserves it based on others who were inducted from their respective positions. Billy Wagner was pretty tricky given how others who have comparable numbers were not enshrined, I ultimately chose to include him given how strong his metrics were. Utley, despite being a Met enemy, has an extremely underrated and compelling case. He would be my dark hose, if you will.

What your ballot look like?

The post The Most Deserving On The 2025 Hall Of Fame Ballot appeared first on Metsmerized Online.

The 2025 Hall of Fame voting results will be revealed today at 6 p.m. As of Monday night, 188 votes have been publicized, which is about 48% of the expected total.

Ichiro Suzuki has been checked off on every ballot, while CC Sabathia looks to be a lock, sitting at 93.6%. Two former Mets – Billy Wagner (84.6%) and Carlos Beltrán (80.3%) – are also above the 75% threshold needed for enshrinement. Wagner is in his last year on the ballot and fell five votes shy of Cooperstown in 2024, but he’s already gained nine votes from returning voters this year. Beltrán is in his third year after receiving 57.1% of the vote a year ago, and he’s gained 21 votes this cycle. David Wright has already secured enough votes to remain on the ballot for another year.

You can track the results on Ryan Thibodaux’s tracker.

Latest Mets News

The order of the first round of the 2025 MLB Draft is officially set, with the Mets slated to pick 38th. The Mets, Astros, Blue Jays, Yankees, Giants and Diamondbacks have forfeited their second-round picks for signing players who were tendered a qualifying offer.

Latest MLB News

The Blue Jays have signed outfielder Anthony Santander to a five-year contract worth over $90 million. The deal also includes an opt-out after the 2028 season, which can voided if Toronto picks up the option for the 2030 season, and $35 million deferred. Santander made his first All-Star Game in 2024, batting .235/.308/.506 with a career-high 44 homers in 665 plate appearances. Scott Mitchell of TSN reports that Pete Alonso is still in play for Toronto.

The Giants have signed lefty Joey Lucchesi to a minor league deal with an invite to spring training. He can make $1.5 million if he reaches the majors. Lucchesi made just two starts for the Mets in 2024, but the second one came in the last game of the regular season, in which he held the Braves to one run over six innings and gave the bullpen some much-needed rest.

Another 2024 Met, Alex Young, signed a minor league deal with the Reds. Young played for the Reds in 2023 and 2024, but was traded to the Giants before the Mets claimed him off waivers. In 14 appearances for the Mets, Young posted a 3.29 ERA with 13 strikeouts against seven walks.

Former Mets southpaw Chasen Shreve inked a minor league deal with the Braves. He can earn up to $1.3 million if he were to make the majors. Shreve bounced from the Rangers to the Yankees, to the Rockies in 2024, tossing a scoreless inning in his lone big league appearance of the season.

Right-hander Ryder Ryan has re-signed with the Pirates on a minor league deal with an invite to spring training. A former Mets prospect, Ryan appeared in 15 games for Pittsburgh, posting a 5.66 ERA with 17 strikeouts against nine walks across 20 2/3 innings.

The Rangers have signed righty Peyton Gray to a minor league contract. A former Rockies farmhand, Gray carved up the competition in the Mexican Winter League this offseason, posting a 1.57 ERA with 33 strikeouts against five walks in 23 innings.

Latest on MMO

Evan Mazza looks at the Mets’ biggest needs remaining this offseason.

David Melendi breaks down the reliever market still available in free agency.

On This Date in Mets History

2002: In a three-team deal with the Rockies and Brewers, the Mets send Benny Abgayani and Todd Zeile to Colorado, and Lenny Randle and Glendon Rusch to Milwaukee. Headed to New York from Colorado are Ross Gload, Alex Ochoa, and Craig House, though Ochoa is immediately sent to Milwaukee. The Brewers send Jeromy Burnitz, Jeff D’Amico, Lou Collier, and Mark Sweeney to the Mets.

2006: The Mets trade Kris Benson to the Orioles in exchange for Jorge Julio and John Maine. Julio saved 83 games in five seasons in Baltimore. Maine has struggled in his brief time in the majors but flew through Baltimore’s minor league system after a dominant 2003 season.

Born on This Date: Jake Diekman (1987).

The post Morning Briefing: 2025 Hall of Fame Results Announced Today appeared first on Metsmerized Online.

Commissioner Rob Manfred

“For multiple generations of baseball fans, Rickey Henderson was the gold standard of base stealing and leadoff hitting. Rickey was one of the most accomplished and beloved Athletics of all time. He also made an impact with many other clubs during a quarter-century career like no other. He epitomized speed, power and entertainment in setting the tone at the top of the lineup. When we considered new rules for the game in recent years, we had the era of Rickey Henderson in mind.

Rickey earned universal respect, admiration and awe from sports fans. On behalf of Major League Baseball, I send my deepest condolences to Rickey’s family, his friends and former teammates, A’s fans and baseball fans everywhere.”

Dave Stewart, childhood friend, World Champion teammate with Athletics

“I can’t explain what someone who was present in every memory, childhood to today, means to me, or what it means to cope with having no more tomorrows alongside him. Rickey Henderson was the best ballplayer many know, but that is nothing in comparison to the brother he is to me.”

Mike Piazza, Hall of Famer, teammate with Mets

“Rickey Henderson was a dream to hit behind as a teammate and a nightmare for a catcher as an opponent. He was one of the most generous, hysterical and gracious human beings. He will be sorely missed. Prayers for his soul and family.”

Dave Winfield, Hall of Famer, teammate with Yankees

“I truly cannot believe I’ve lost one of my favorite teammates and great friend Rickey Henderson. Rest in peace.”

José Canseco, teammate with Athletics

“I’m heartbroken and devastated. Rickey Henderson was an incredibly talented player but an even better human. I’ll never forget all the incredible memories we created together. Memories I’ll never forget. Rest easy my friend.”

Dennis Eckersley, Hall of Famer, teammate with Athletics

“I’m very sad about the loss of my friend, teammate and fellow Hall of Famer. We were two Bay Area boys. I was proud to play with him. He was the greatest player I ever played with. I cherished our recent times together both in Cooperstown and at the Oakland Coliseum. My condolences to his family.”

Bobby Valentine, Mets manager, 1996-2002

“It was an honor to be in the same uniform with Rickey Henderson. He was the most entertaining and dynamic player I ever saw. RIP Rickey. You were the greatest!”

Darren Yamashita-USA TODAY Sports

Sandy Alderson, baseball executive with Mets, A’s and Padres

“I traded Rickey Henderson twice and brought him back more times than that. He was the best player I ever saw play. He did it all,  hit, hit for power, stole bases and defended,  and he did it with a flair that enthused his fans and infuriated his opponents. But everyone was amused by his personality, style and third-person references to himself. He was unique in many ways. Rickey stories are legion, legendary and mostly true. But behind his reputation as self-absorbed was a wonderful, kind human being who loved kids. His true character became more evident over time. Nine different teams, one unforgettable player. Sandy gonna miss Rickey.”

Willie Randolph, teammate with Yankees

“People always ask me who was the best player I’ve played with. I played with so many tremendous players through the years that I hate picking just one. But pound for pound, Rickey Henderson was the greatest player I ever played with. He possessed so many talents that could positively impact the outcome of a game. I’m going to cherish the memories Rickey and I shared together. He was a special man.”

Buck Showalter, former Mets manager

“I played against Rickey when he was with Jersey City in the Eastern League in 1978. He batted .310 but didn’t hit a home run in 133 games. People don’t realize how dedicated he was to being the best he could be. He took great care of his body and was ahead of his time in nutrition and conditioning. In my opinion, he was the best leadoff hitter of all time.

“He was in my first big league camp, and my first time throwing to big-league hitters was to his batting group. He had a strike zone the size of a thimble, and I had never seen anyone run the way he did, with powerful strides that were fluid and violent at the same time. As a young coach working with the outfielders, Rickey laughed easily and made me feel comfortable. I can’t believe he’s gone. He was one of a kind.”

Associated Press file photos

Billy Wagner, former Mets reliever

“RIP, there will never be anyone like Rickey Henderson. I’m in pure shock. Grew up wanting to be Rickey. Played against him and he was our Mets 1B coach. Truly a great player but a tremendous person. Thank you for Rickey Time.”

Jerry Blevins, former Mets, A’s reliever

“Rickey Henderson was an incredible man. A legend who was so much more approachable than his image would have you think. From playing cards in the clubhouse to picking his Hall of Fame mind about holding runners, Rickey would share his wealth of knowledge with ease. RIP Rickey.”

Pamela Henderson

“It is with profound sadness that we share the passing of my husband, Rickey Henderson. A legend on and off the field, Rickey was a devoted son, dad, friend, grandfather, brother, uncle and a truly humble soul. Rickey lived his life with integrity, and his love for baseball was paramount. Now, Rickey is at peace with the Lord, cherishing the extraordinary moments and achievements he leaves behind.”

The National Baseball Hall of Fame

The Man of Steal … and so much more.

• 1,406 stolen bases –  1st all-time
• 2,129 unintentional walks – 1st all-time
• 2,295 runs scored – 1st all-time
• 81 leadoff home runs – 1st all time

The post The Baseball World Continues To Mourn Rickey Henderson appeared first on Metsmerized Online.

The New York Mets completed the season sweep of the Subway Series for the first time since 2013 on Wednesday night.

After taking the first two games in Queens in June against their Bronx rivals, the Mets came into Yankee Stadium on Tuesday with all of the odds against them. Despite not getting to New York until 5 a.m., the Mets squeaked out an improbable win behind a huge ninth inning from Jake Diekman on Tuesday night. However, on Wednesday night, the Mets put the final nail in the Yankees’ coffin and left nothing for chance.

With Gerrit Cole on the mound at Yankee Stadium, the Mets’ bats were going to have to come to play in order to complete the season sweep of the Subway Series. But, the Mets hitters were more than up to the task. Tyrone Taylor started the home run party in the third inning with a solo shot, and the barrage carried on from there. Pete Alonso put the Mets ahead with a two-run bomb, Francisco Lindor followed with two long balls of his own, and Mark Vientos put the finishing touch on the Mets’ 12-run night with a solo shot in the eighth. The Mets held the Yankees to just three runs in a 12-3 slaughtering of the Bronx “Bombers.”

The Mets will look to carry their hot bats back over to Queens as they host the Braves in a pivotal four-game set, which will have great implications on the Wild Card picture. Luis Severino (7-3, 3.58 ERA) will battle Chris Sale (13-3, 2.70 ERA) in Game 1 of the series on Thursday night at 7:10 p.m.

Photo by Brad Penner-USA TODAY Sports

Latest Mets News

Mets manager Carlos Mendoza told the media that Christian Scott will not require elbow surgery, per Anthony DiComo of MLB.com. He’s going to go the rest-and-rehab route and will be shut down for the next two weeks. For more information, click here.

José Iglesias jumped on the mic to talk to the ESPN booth about his hit song “OMG” during the Mets’ win against the Yankees on Wednesday night. 

José Iglesias gets on the mic and talks about the story behind his hit song "OMG" 🎙️ pic.twitter.com/Y7LltxqiV5

— ESPN (@espn) July 24, 2024

The Mets signed their picks from the 14th and 16th round on Wednesday. Fourteenth-rounder Tanner Witt signed for $225,000 ($72,500 goes toward the bonus pool) and 16th-rounder Josh Blum signed for $150,000, per Carlos Collazo of Baseball America.

Amazin’s first round pick Carson Benge also signed with the club. Click here for more details on the contract signing. 

Latest MLB News

After leaving just two innings into his first rehab appearance with a sore knee, Mike Trout was not in the Los Angeles Angels Triple-A affiliate Salt Lake Bees lineup on Wednesday night and will be returning to Southern California to be reevaluated. 

The Dodgers signed and activated INF Nick Ahmed, replacing Miguel Rojas who was rettroactively placed on the IL to July 22 with right forearm tightness, per Fabian Ardaya of The Athletic. The Dodgers also activated RHP Tyler Glasnow.

The Milwaukee Brewers placed former MVP OF Christian Yelich on the 10-day IL with low back inflammation. Yelich will see a spine specialist on Thursday to discuss next steps, including the possibility of season-ending back surgery, per Adam McCalvy of MLB.com.

MLB Network announced their direct-to-consumer offer for fans on Wednesday. Fans can purchase MLB Network through a standalone offer of $5.99 per month and through other avenues as well.

Prince Fielder‘s son, Jadyn Fielder, is joining the Brewers organization as an undrafted free agent, per Ken Rosenthal of The Athletic. The 19-year-old plays second and third base.

Chris Sale, who was supposed to start for the Braves on Wednesday night, will now pitch the first game against the Mets on Thursday, per David O’Brien of The Athletic. Charlie Morton, Spencer Schwellenbach and Reynaldo López, in that order, will start rest of the games against the Mets.

Blue Jays outfielder Kevin Kiermaier told Marc Topkin of the Tampa Bay Times, that he will be retiring after the conclusion of the 2024 season. Kiermaier is still playing with the Blue Jays despite the team placing him on waivers and exploring trade options for the 34-year-old Gold Glove center fielder.

MLB will be redirecting money collected from teams that spend over the luxury tax to teams whose TV revenues are hurting, per Evan Drellich of The Athletic. The CBA provision will give teams losing TV money up to $15 million each, with an estimated limit of $75 million in payment league wide. 

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Mathias Altman-Kurosaki looked into potential Mets trade target A.J. Puk.

Ricky Keeler highlighted Jeff McNeil‘s power surge in the second half.

David Melendi applauded the Mets bullpen brilliance on Tuesday night. 

On This Date in Mets History

2023: The Mets take the second game of a two-game set to split their Subway Series bout with the Yankees. Justin Verlander threw six scoreless innings and Pete Alonso hit two homers in the 9-3 victory.

2015: In his second MLB game, Michael Conforto goes 4-for-4 with a walk, and RBI, and four runs scored in a 15-2 romping of the Dodgers at Citi Field.

2014: Lucas Duda hits a two-run go-ahead home run in the top of the ninth inning off former Mets closer K-Rod, Francisco Rodríguez. Jenry Mejía went on to throw a scoreless bottom of the ninth to lock down the 3-2 win.

1990: Leading 10-3 going into the bottom of the ninth, the Mets give up six runs before John Franco forces a lineout with the tying run on third base to hold on to a 10-9 win.

Birthdays: Guillermo Mota (51), Billy Wagner (53)

The post Morning Briefing: Mets Sweep Subway Series For First Time Since 2013 appeared first on Metsmerized Online.

Happy Independence Day to the best nation in the world!

On Wednesday, MLB released the starting lineups for the AL and NL as they prepare for the 2024 All-Star Game, which will be held on July 16 at Globe Life Field in Arlington, Texas. While no Mets made the starting lineup, plenty of first time All-Stars got the starting nod and familiar faces continue to cement their Midsummer Classic legacies. Here are the starting lineups for each league:

NL: C: William Contreras, MIL, 1B: Bryce Harper, PHI, 2B: Ketel Marte, ARI, SS: Trea Turner, PHI, 3B: Alec Bohm, PHI, OF: Christian Yelich, MIL OF: Jurickson Profar, SDP OF: Fernando Tatis Jr., SDP, DH: Shohei Ohtani, LAD.

AL: C: Adley Rutschman, BAL, 1B: Vladimir Guerrero Jr., TOR, 2B: José Altuve, HOU, SS: Gunnar Henderson, BAL, 3B: José Ramírez, CLE, OF: Aaron Judge, NYY, OF: Juan Soto, NYY, OF: Steven Kwan, CLE, DH: Yordan Álvarez, HOU.

Along with announcing the starters for the 96th annual All-Star Game, MLB also released the uniforms that will be worn on the field.

Mark J. Rebilas-USA TODAY Sports

On Wednesday evening, the Mets found themselves on the losing side for the first time in their series against the Nationals this week. After taking two extra-inning games to start the four-game set, the Mets were not able to outscore their bullpen woes, blowing a 5-1 lead and falling by a score of 7-5 to the Nationals. For a full game breakdown, click here.

The Mets will try to leave Washington with a series win as they finish up the series. Jose Quintana (4.57 ERA, 3-5) will face Jake Irvin (3.03 ERA, 6-6) of the Nationals at 11:05 a.m. ET.

Latest Mets News

Kodai Senga looked sharp in his first rehab start for the High-A Brooklyn Cyclones: 2.2 IP, 0 H, 0 R, 0 BB, 6 K, 35 pitches/25 strikes. To learn more about Senga’s first rehab start, click here.

The Mets called up Christian Scott from Triple-A Syracuse and DFA’d RHP Matt Festa prior to Wednesday’s game. Scott started on Wednesday, going 5.2 IP 6 H, 4 ER, 2 BB, and 2 SO while leaving the game with a 5-4 lead.

Veteran outfielder Trayce Thompson was released from his contract with the Triple-A Syracuse Mets, per Mike Mayer of Metsmerized Online.

Latest MLB News

Minnesota Twins slugger Royce Lewis was placed on the 10-day IL with a right adductor strain.

The Milwaukee Brewers acquired starting pitcher Aaron Civale in a trade with the Tampa Bay Rays, sending INF prospect Gregory Barrios to Tampa Bay in return.

Toronto Blue Jays closer Jordan Romano underwent arthroscopic surgery on his right elbow to repair an impingement and will be down from throwing for at least six weeks, per Keegan Matheson of MLB.com. It is still unknown if he will be able to return this season.

The Minnesota Twins called up their top infield prospect, and No. 13 prospect in all of baseball, Brooks Lee, per Declan Goff of SKOR North. Lee started at third base and went 2-for-4 with an RBI in his MLB debut.

Jon Heyman reported on a Bleacher Report livestream that the Seattle Mariners and Los Angeles Dodgers are the “most likely” landing spots for Chicago White Sox star outfielder Luis Robert Jr.

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Jose Iglesias and the Mets offense have propelled them to key late-inning wins.

Sean Manaea helped lighten the heavily taxed bullpen’s load with his impressive outing on Tuesday.

Kodai Senga shined in his first rehab start.

On This Date in Mets History

2006: The Mets score three runs in the bottom of the 8th to take a 7-6 lead over the Pirates and Billy Wagner locks it down in the 9th, recording his 300th career save. 

1985: In a 19-inning marathon, the Mets outlast the Braves, winning by a score of 16-13 behind a Keith Hernandez cycle.

1972: Tom Seaver comes within two outs of a no-hitter against the Padres, before a base hit by Leron Lee broke up the no-hit bid.

Birthdays: Jared Hughes (39), José Oquendo (61)

The post Morning Briefing: MLB All-Star Game Starters Announced appeared first on Metsmerized Online.

After years of being a divisional pest, former Philadelphia Phillies first baseman Rhys Hoskins agreed to a two-year, $34 million contract with the Milwaukee Brewers. ESPN’s Jeff Passan was the first to report the agreement. 

The deal comes with an opt-out after the first season, according to Passan. 

Hoskins, 31, missed last season after suffering a torn ACL during spring training. Prior to the injury, he was a mainstay in the middle of the Philadelphia lineup. 

Hoskins hit 148 home runs, drove in 405 runs, and had an OPS of .846 over six seasons with the Phillies. 

Latest Mets News 

David Wright secured his spot on the 2025 Hall of Fame ballot, while Billy Wagner and Carlos Beltran improved from the previous year. Read Metsmerized’s coverage here. 

Jose Reyes did not receive a single Hall of Fame vote. Here’s how former Mets fared on this year’s ballot. 

Ken Rosenthal reported the Mets “do not seem inclined to spend on a DH.” Read more here.

The Mets reportedly have interest in reliever Ryne Stanek. Read more here. 

The Mets will debut their City Connect jerseys on April 26. More details can be found here.

Jay Horwitz conducted an in-depth interview with former Mets pitcher John Maine. Find the interview here. 

Latest MLB News

Adrian Beltre, Joe Mauer and Todd Helton were elected to the 2024 Hall of Fame. Read more here. 

The Los Angeles Angels signed pitcher Matt Moore, per Jon Heyman of the New York Post.

The Nationals agreed to a one-year contract with Joey Gallo, according to Andrew Golden of the Washington Post.  

The Los Angeles Dodgers agreed to a contract with James Paxton, according to Heyman. 

The Durham Bulls, the Tampa Bay Rays Triple-A affiliate, announced Morgan Ensberg as its manager. 

Pitchers Michael Lorenzen and Noah Syndergaard threw for about 16 MLB Teams on Tuesday, per Robert Murray of Fansided. 

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Brian Wright outlines the Hall of Fame case for David Wright. 

Christian De Block profiles Matt Moore. 

On This Date in Mets History

1980: Publishing company Doubleday and Co. bought the Mets for $21 million. Part of the group was Fred Wilpon, who owned a majority of the team by 2002. 

Birthdays: Jose Quintana (35), Mike Glavine (51), Neil Allen (66)

The post Morning Briefing: Rhys Hoskins Joins Brewers appeared first on Metsmerized Online.