The new-look team took two out of three from the Pirates. A 4-3 loss in extra innings on Sunday was the only real negative to emerge from the first series of the year.

Two of the three games went to extra innings, and there were a lot of positives to focus on. Of course, you have to be careful not to overreact to anything, good or bad, this early in the season.

On that note, we’re going to do our best to try to take our own advice in the first 3 Up, 3 Down of the 2026 regular season!

Mar 28, 2026; New York City, New York, USA; New York Mets center fielder Luis Robert Jr. (88) reacts to hitting a three run walk off home run against the Pittsburgh Pirates during the eleventh inning at Citi Field. Mandatory Credit: Gregory Fisher-Imagn Images

3 UP

STELLAR FIRST IMPRESSION

Talk about making an impact early. Luis Robert Jr. absolutely excelled in his first three games in a Mets uniform, providing a tantalizing preview of what could be to come. The outfielder was seen as a wild card following his trade from the White Sox. He has always had boatloads of talent, but he was coming off two poor years ravaged by injuries. However, he flashed that high ceiling throughout the series against the Pirates. He executed a 10-pitch walk that led to an offensive outburst on Opening Day. He hit a walk-off three-run homer on Saturday.

And he enjoyed another strong day at the plate on Sunday with two hits. In total, Robert Jr. finished the weekend 5-for-11 with three walks and five RBIs. While it is early, this version of the center fielder could prove to be a pivotal factor in helping the Mets accomplish their desired goals in 2026.

WE HAVE LIFT-OFF!

Carson Benge made the Opening Day roster after a strong spring, and he had an MLB debut to remember. The rookie blasted his first career home run in the big leagues on Thursday, drawing thunderous cheers from those inside Citi Field. It was a special moment for Benge, who also drew two walks and stole a base in his first taste of the big time. Granted, the rest of the weekend didn’t go quite as well with Benge striking out five times in total. However, every rookie will experience ups and downs early on in their career. That’s just a fact. And we saw enough on Opening Day to feel confident that Benge will be able to work through any growing pains.

GUTTING IT OUT

Gritty would be the word best used to describe the Mets’ pitching over the weekend. It wasn’t always pretty, but both the rotation and the bullpen got the job done. For the most part, anyway. Freddy Peralta gave up a couple of home runs but still got the win. David Peterson was more than solid on Saturday with 5.1 scoreless innings. And Nolan McLean faced a lot of traffic but was able to get through his first start of the season with only two runs allowed. As for the bullpen, both Luke Weaver and Devin Williams tossed scoreless innings in their Mets debuts. Weaver also didn’t allow a run to score on Sunday. Brooks Raley struck out two in a perfect inning on Saturday.

Sean Manaea also didn’t give up a run across 1.1 innings in his first outing out of the bullpen on Sunday. And Tobias Myers gave the Mets three innings of solid long relief with just one run allowed on Opening Day. All in all, while the pitching wasn’t always dominant or easy, the starters and relievers combined to do what was asked of them throughout the weekend.

Bo Bichette Photo by Ed Delany of Metsmerized

3 DOWN

SWINGING AND MISSING

The lineup was relentless on Opening Day, emphasizing patience and elite contact. However, that approach went missing for the rest of the weekend. The offense struck out eight times on Saturday and a gaudy 16 times in the finale. Between the final two games, the lineup went a combined 5-for-24 with runners in scoring position. Over that span, there were 24 strikeouts and 17 runners left on base. Furthermore, the Mets scored just seven runs over the final 21 innings of the series. That just isn’t going to get it done. Granted, we’re just three games into the season, and there were some good moments too. However, with that said, this lineup was constructed to avoid the issues that proved to be fatal flaws throughout the 2025 season. There were just too many swings and misses, and that can’t become a habit.

UBER-AGGRESSIVE

You could make a compelling argument that the Mets could have swept the opening series were it not for one big mistake in the finale. In the bottom of the 10th with two runners on and nobody out, Juan Soto hit an RBI double to make it a one-run game. However, third base coach Tim Leiper gave the send signal to Francisco Lindor, who was tagged at the plate. It was way too aggressive a send. Plus, Lindor got wiped out in the process and was probably lucky to emerge unscathed. The decision ended the threat and, ultimately, led to the Pirates taking the finale.

BOO-OFF

Now, I’m going to preface what I’m about to say by admitting that fans are entitled to their opinions, especially if they pay a lot of money to go to games. However, booing a player in the third game of the season just isn’t the way to go. Yes, Bo Bichette had an ugly day at the plate on Sunday, finishing 0-for-5 with three strikeouts. Across the weekend, he went a combined 1-for-15 with eight strikeouts. He also left five runners stranded in scoring position over the final two games. But, despite that, it is just unwise to boo a player three games in. It doesn’t help anybody, least of all Bichette, who is still adjusting to a new team and a new city. He deserves credit for handling the whole situation in a mature and classy way, but he shouldn’t have been put in that position to begin with.

There is no doubt that Bichette will get going offensively soon enough. With that said, I’m just shocked he had to deal with boos in the first place. It is way too early, and that’s hardly going to help a new player settle in any quicker. Rant over.

The post 3 Up, 3 Down: Mets Secure First Series Win Of 2026 appeared first on Metsmerized Online.

A day after the New York Mets took down the Pittsburgh Pirates on Opening Day, their Triple-A affiliate will begin their season on the road with a notable name on the mound.

Right-hander Jonah Tong, who is universally viewed as one of the Mets’ top prospects, will toe the rubber for Syracuse against left-hander Jake Bennett and the Worcester Red Sox.

Syracuse also opened the 2025 campaign in Worcester, resulting in a 4-3 victory aided by a one-run, five-strikeout performance over five innings by starter Blade Tidwell, who was later traded to the San Francisco Giants at last year’s deadline as part of the package for Tyler Rogers.

Jonah Tong
Photo by Ed Delany of Metsmerized

Syracuse Lineup

1. MJ Melendez – LF
2. Nick Morabito – CF
3. Ronny Mauricio – SS
4. Ryan Clifford – 1B
5. Christian Arroyo – 3B
6. Jose Rojas – DH
7. Cristian Pache – RF
8. Jackson Cluff – 2B
9. Hayden Senger – C

Worcester Lineup

1. Nick Sogard – 3B
2. Kristian Campbell – CF
3. Mickey Gasper – 1B
4. Nate Eaton – RF
5. Mikey Romero – 2B
6. Allan Castro – DH
7. Tsung-Che Cheng – SS
8. Matt Thaiss – C
9. Braiden Ward – LF

Game Notes

• Tong, who recorded a 7.71 ERA in five starts and 18 2/3 innings at the big-league level in 2025, did not allow an earned run across 11 2/3 frames for Syracuse last season.
• Both Ben Rortvedt and Vidal Bruján cleared waivers and have been out-righted to Syracuse, per MLB.com’s Anthony DiComo.
• Mauricio is heading into his third season in Syracuse. Over 125 total games with the team, he has slashed .306/.361/.526 with 26 home runs and 28 stolen bases. The 24-year-old batted .226/.293/.369 in 184 plate appearances with the Mets last season.

The post Mets Minors Game Thread: Tong Gets Opening Day Start for Syracuse appeared first on Metsmerized Online.

The Mets kicked off the 2026 season with a huge home win on Opening Day, defeating the Pittsburgh Pirates 11-7. Carson Benge had a dream MLB debut and the entire offense was firing on all cylinders making for a fun home opener at Citi Field.

The Mets will have a customary day off on Friday before returning to Citi Field on Saturday for the second game of the series. It will be right-handed pitcher Mitch Keller on the mound for the Pirates against left-handed pitcher David Peterson for the Mets as he makes his first start of 2026.

Brad Penner-Imagn Images

Latest Mets News

The Mets made history on Thursday. As noted by Sarah Langs of MLB.com, with the Mets starting Bo Bichette at third base for the first time in his career and Jorge Polanco at first base for just the second time in his career, the Mets became the second team in the last 100 years to start two non-rookie infielders on Opening Day with one or no prior MLB games at that position. They join the 1948 Brooklyn Dodgers, who started Jackie Robinson at second base and Billy Cox at third base.

Per Ryan Morik of Fox News, New York Mets legend Keith Hernandez says he still gets paid “close to $5,000” per year in “Seinfeld” residuals.

Mike Janela shared one of the newest Citi Field features: The Mets now display the title and artist for every Mets batter’s walk-up song.

According to Jon Heyman of the New York Post, Mike Tauchman had surgery on Thursday morning to repair his torn meniscus in his left knee. The surgery went as expected and he will be out another six weeks before being cleared to return to play.

Per Sarah Langs of MLB.com, Carson Benge became the 14th player with a home run and a stolen base in his MLB debut since the modern stole base rule was adopted back in 1898. He is the second Met: Lenny Dykstra on May 3, 1985 and the first MLB player to do so since Weston Wilson on August 9, 2023.

ESPN noted that along with Benge hitting a home run in his MLB debut, Munetaka Murakami of the Chicago White Sox and JJ Wetherholt of the St. Louis Cardinals both hit a home run in their first career MLB games as well. This marked the first season in MLB history that three players, each in his MLB debut, homered on Opening Day.

Mathew Brownstein of Metsmerized mentioned the three youngest players to record at least one walk, one home run and one stolen base on Opening Day. Those included Barry Bonds, who was 24 years, 254 days old (1989); Bryce Harper, who was 23 years, 171 days (2016); and now Carson Benge: 23 years, 65 days (2026).

Jorge Castillo of ESPN reported that the Mets and outfielder Tommy Pham are in agreement on a minor league deal.

Latest MLB News

The Milwaukee Brewers on Thursday announced that they placed outfielder Jackson Chourio on the 10-day injured list with a left hand fracture, retroactive to Wednesday. In return they recalled outfielder Blake Perkins from Triple-A Nashville.

Per Jesse Rogers of ESPN, according to sources, the Chicago Cubs are in agreement with second baseman Nico Hoerner on a six-year deal, pending a physical.

Per MLB, 15-year MLB veteran Carl Crawford shared a moment with his son, Justin, after his Major League Debut.

Latest on MMO

Christian De Block previewed the first series of the Mets/ 2026 season and their home opener against the new-look Pittsburgh Pirates.

Michelle Ioannou and the Metsmerized staff discussed their 2026 Mets hot takes in an MMO roundtable piece.

The Metsmerized podcast released its 2026 season preview.

Michael Simon recapped the New York Mets’ 2026 home opener, including Carson Benge’s home run and the Mets’ offense crushing Paul Skenes.

Alexis Farinacci recapped Carson Benge’s dream MLB debut.

On This Date in Mets History

1987: The Mets traded backup catcher Ed Hearn to the Kansas City Royals along with pitcher Rick Anderson in exchange for pitcher David Cone.

Born on This Date: Clay Holmes (1993), Brandon Nimmo (1993), Johnny Monell (1986), Michael Cuddyer (1979), Bill Sudakis (1946).

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Benge picked up right where he left off this spring. He reached base three times on Thursday, going 1-for-3 with a home run for his first big league hit, an RBI, two runs scored, walked twice, and stole a base.

He said his MLB debut was everything he thought it was going to be. “Definitely anxious to get out there and start playing,” he said.

Hitting a home run as your first major league hit is a thing kids dream of, and Benge made that a reality. His home run came in the sixth inning, a solo shot to right field that extended the Mets’ lead. His smile said it all as he jogged around the bases, jumped up with a fist bump at third base on his way around the bases, watched the apple rise in the outfield, and was greeted with applause, high-fives and hugs from his teammates. He received a much-deserved curtain call from the Citi Field fans, his first curtain call as a Met.

His stolen base followed in the eighth when he stole second with Francisco Alvarez at bat. The smile once again said how much fun the rookie was having.

Adding to the list, Benge received his first post-game shower when he was doused with the Gatorade shower during his post-game interview with NBC. Benge stayed in his uniform during his postgame availability, relishing the moment of what he had just experienced.

When talking about his first big league home run, Benge said he kind of “blacked out running around the bases.” “I don’t really remember too much,” he joked about. “I know I got it good off the bat, but running hard out of the box definitely,” he laughed.

Benge said it meant the world to him to hit his first MLB home run on Thursday. “It means the world, having all the people who’ve sacrificed so much for me come up and watch that happen is definitely big,” he said.

Carlos Mendoza complimented Benge’s character and the way he kept himself composed after striking out twice.

“The personality. Who he is super consistent. He’s 0-for-2 with a couple of strikeouts and still feels pretty good about his chances. He controls the strike zone, he walks, there’s a couple of walks there, and then he gets a pitch that he can do damage and goes to the pull side like that,” said Mendoza. “I’m not surprised by it because of the personality there.”

Benge also spoke on the strikeouts, saying he told himself to calm down and breathe. He said his adrenaline was running, he had a lot of excitement stepping into the plate for the first time, and that he just needed to calm down.

“Great atmosphere, great fans, just trying to bring myself back down so I could compete,” he said. “The first one is always going to be something to remember,” he said with a smile on his face. He described the crowd at Citi Field as “loudest he’s ever heard x 5” and how much he enjoyed hearing it. He said after his first home run, he had chills and said it confirmed that that is where he is supposed to be: At Citi Field as a Met, having fun, playing baseball.

Benge said his first big league home run ball will be going to his parents. Why? “So I don’t lose it,” said Benge.

Benge said that leading up to his big league debut, he slept great and didn’t have nerves. He said as he walked into the stadium for the first time Thursday, he got a little anxious, but he said he did sleep well on Wednesday night ahead of his debut.

Adding to the entertainment of the day, during the game, a dead bird “fell out of the sky” next to Benge. Fans were heard heckling him, telling him to pick it up. “I heard a thud, I looked over, and it was just down, down for the count,” he said.

“Unbelievable, really, really cool,” said Brett Baty, who recounted the moment when Alvarez and he hit home runs in their first games. “It was really, really special and I’m really happy for him.”

Thursday will be a day Benge remembers forever: first MLB opening day, first big league hit, first big league home run, first big league stolen base, and a dead bird falling from the sky.

Benge welcomed his family onto the field at the end of the game, including his dog. There were a lot of hugs between him and his family, including his parents, brothers and dog.

From here, Benge said he’s going to “play my game.” This is just the start to what is slated to be a phenomenal career for the kid from Oklahoma.

The post Carson Benge Has Dream MLB Debut appeared first on Metsmerized Online.

The 2026 Mets officially take the field for the first time this afternoon!

In 2005, the Mets signed Carlos Beltrán and Pedro Martínez. They rolled into the season with the slogan “The New Mets”. They should bring that slogan back this year with the amount of roster turnover. The Mets rank 28th in how much of the 2025 roster is returning in 2026. Jorge Polanco, Marcus Semien and Bo Bichette join Francisco Lindor in the infield. Luis Robert Jr. and Carson Benge join Juan Soto in the outfield. Freddy Peralta makes an Opening Day start in Queens. Devin Williams and Luke Weaver will now close out games. Meet the Mets! There are a lot of new faces to learn!

Francisco Lindor (12) Credit: John Jones-Imagn Images

Mets Lineup

1. Francisco Lindor – SS
2. Juan Soto – LF
3. Bo Bichette – 3B
4. Jorge Polanco – 1B
5. Luis Robert Jr. – CF
6. Brett Baty – DH
7. Marcus Semien – 2B
8. Carson Benge – RF
9. Francisco Alvarez – C

Starting Pitcher: Freddy Peralta

The Mets’ trade for Freddy Peralta was a real turning point of the offseason. Peralta is coming off a career season where he made 33 starts totaling 176 2/3 innings with a 2.70 ERA, 3.64 FIP, 1.075 WHIP and a 154 ERA+. He faced the Pirates three times last season, totaling 15 1/3 innings, allowing five runs, four earned (2.35 ERA) while striking out 18 batters. The Pirates have the following career numbers against Peralta:

• Joey Bart 1-2, HR, BB
• Oneil Cruz 1-13, HR, 3 BB, 4 K
• Henry Davis 0-7, BB, 4 K
• Nick Gonzalez 2-10, 2B, HR, 4 K
• Spencer Horwitz 2-7
• Brandon Loew 1-5, K
• Ryan O’Hearn 1-6, BB, 3 K
• Marcell Ozuna 4-20, 2 2B, 2 BB, 6 K
• Bryan Reynolds 15-39, 2 2B, 3B, HR, 5 BB, 13 K
• Jared Triolo 1-9, 2 K
• Nick Yorke 0-1, BB, K

Opposing Lineup

1. Oneil Cruz – CF
2. Brandon Lowe – 2B
3. Bryan Reynolds – LF
4. Marcell Ozuna – DH
5. Ryan O’Hearn – RF
6. Jared Triolo – SS
7. Spencer Horwitz – 1B
8. Nick Gonzales – 3B
9. Henry Davis – C

Starting Pitcher: Paul Skenes

The Mets’ bats have a tough assignment on the first day of the season. Paul Skenes, the unanimous 2025 Cy Young winner, is a favorite to repeat this season. Over 32 starts last season, he totaled 187 2/3 innings with a league-leading 1.97 ERA, 2.36 FIP, 0.948 WHIP and 217 ERA+. He also allowed a league-leading 0.5 HR/9 and put up a 7.7 bWAR. This includes a start against the Mets where he allowed only one run over six innings in a game the Pirates eventually lost 4-3. The Mets have the following career stats against Skenes:

• Francisco Alvarez 0-4, BB, K
• Brett Baty 0-2, K
• Bo Bichette 1-3, K
• Francisco Lindor 2-6
• Jorge Polanco 1-4, BB, 2 K
• Juan Soto 0-3, BB, 2 K
• Mark Vientos 2-3, 2B, K

Game Notes

• Despite dropping their last two openers, the Mets still have the best Opening Day winning percentage in MLB history with a 41-23 record (.641).
• This is Freddy Peralta’s second Opening Day start at Citi Field – he allowed just one run on one hit in six innings for the Brewers in 2024. Peralta started against the Yankees on Opening Day last year, allowing two runs on four hits over five innings.

Three Things To Watch For

1. 2026 Milestones. Several Mets hitters should reach personal milestones this season. Here are the big ones: Juan Soto 1000 walks, Bo Bichette 1000 hits, Marcus Semien 1000 runs scored and Francisco Lindor 300 home runs. While no franchise Mets records are expected to fall this season, Francisco Lindor and David Peterson look to move up several prominent lists this year. Francisco Lindor has scored 503 runs as a Met and should pass Mike Piazza (532) and Ed Kranepool (536) to get to 11th on the list. He should also pass Carlos Beltrán and Dave Kingman in home runs to get to sixth on the all-time list. David Peterson can end up as a top 20 Mets pitcher in a few categories.
2. Battle of the fWAR Projections. The Pirates, anchored by Paul Skenes and several other rising arms, project ninth in pitching fWAR this season at 17.2, a few spots above the Mets (15.7). The Mets are projected to have the second-best offensive fWAR (31.7) while the Pirates are near the bottom of the league (20.9). Similar to how the Mets beat Skenes last season, their path to victory runs through getting Skenes out of the game as fast as possible and then feasting on the bullpen, while suppressing the Pirates’ bats.
3. An Opening Day Debut. The Mets’ top position prospect made the roster! Carson Benge has exploded on top prospect lists before this season (Baseball America #19, MLB.com #16, Baseball Prospectus #10). He tore up spring training, going 15-for-41 with a double and a triple (.435 OBP) and comes off a season in which he hit .281/.385/.472. Welcome to the show!

Let’s go Mets!

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The Mets announced their theme and heritage games from April to June this year. Of note, the team is hosting Star Wars night on May 14, where fans can receive a Nolan McLean Mandalorian themed bobblehead. Among the other theme games on the schedule are First Responders Appreciation Night (April 23) and Puerto Rican Heritage Night (June 9).

Via Mets

Latest Mets News

Manager Carlos Mendoza announced on Friday that Freddy Peralta will be the Mets’ Opening Day starter. This sets up a matchup in the first game of the season between Peralta and Paul Skenes of the Pirates. This will be the fifth straight year the Mets have had a new starter on Opening Day; Clay Holmes took the mound for the Mets’ first game a season ago.

Peralta shined in his first appearance in a Mets uniform, tossing three perfect innings on just 29 pitches as the Mets crushed the Cardinals 14-3. MJ Melendez also stood out as he hit two home runs, both to the opposite field.

Grae Kessinger, an infielder in spring training with the Mets, suffered a left knee injury that “didn’t look too good,” according to Carlos Mendoza.

Mets director of major league hitting Jeff Albert spoke to Tim Britton of The Athletic about his coaching style and how he sees the Mets’ lineup, among other topics.

Daniel Murphy spoke to Mike Puma of the New York Post about a number of topics, including the Mets’ new-look lineup and the Dodgers.

Robert Stock, a veteran pitcher in the Mets organization, shared a pitching analytics platform he made from scratch using AI.

Latest on MMO

Kai Chang analyzes starter Nolan McLean’s impressive spring debut.

Robert Colonna discusses whether reliever Ryan Lambert can reach his potential in the Mets’ bullpen.

David Melendi previews Team Korea ahead of the World Baseball Classic.

Michael Mayer continues our Top Prospects countdown with the Mets’ 35-31 ranked prospects.

On This Date in Mets History

1975: The Mets purchased Dave Kingman‘s contract from the Giants for $150,000. Kingman spent three years with the Mets before returning in 1981, again on February 28, in a trade with the Cubs.

Born on This Date: Brian Bannister (1981).

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The Mets’ 2026 Opening Day matchup against the Pirates will be nationally televised as part of NBC and Peacock’s Opening Day doubleheader. The game will air at 1:00 p.m. ET on March 26 and will be followed by the Diamondbacks and Dodgers at 8:00 p.m. ET. The game is likely to feature this new-look Mets team against Pittsburgh ace Paul Skenes. The Mets will be on NBC and Peacock four total times during the 2026 season.

Photo by Vincent Carchietta-USA TODAY Sports

Latest Mets News

Baseball America updated its list of the top 10 Mets prospects. Starter Nolan McLean, unsurprisingly, is listed as the Mets’ top prospect, followed by Carson Benge and Jonah Tong.

Keith Hernandez and SNY are reportedly in the early stages of contract negotiations that would keep Hernandez in the SNY booth for three more years.

Latest MLB News

Max Kepler was suspended 80 games for testing positive for Epitrenbolone, a performance-enhancing drug. Kepler, whose free agency took a hit, was a lifelong Twin before signing with the Phillies ahead of the 2025 season. He recorded a .691 OPS in 127 games.

Former Met Ryne Stanek signed a one-year deal with the Cardinals. Stanek spent the second half of 2024 and all of 2025 with the Mets. He recorded a 5.30 ERA in 65 innings a season ago.

Former Met Nick Madrigal signed a minor-league deal with the Angels. Madrigal was signed as a Jose Iglesias replacement prior to the 2025 season, but he injured himself and did not appear in a game.

Sidney de Jong, a former member of the Netherlands national baseball team, passed away at 46. de Jong appeared in the 2006 and 2009 World Baseball Classic tournaments and had a crucial hit that led to a game-winning rally in a 2009 matchup against the Dominican Republic.

Latest on MMO

Rafael González profiles starter Kris Bubic as a potential trade target for the Mets.

Jack Markowski breaks down the latest rumors, including Ketel Marte likely staying in Arizona, and the Yankees making a new offer to Cody Bellinger.

On This Date in Mets History

Born on This Date: José Castillo (1996), Rico Garcia (1994), Kevin Baez (1967), Jim Lindeman (1962), Mario Díaz (1962), Kelvin Torve (1960).

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New York would ultimately fall by a score of 3-1 to the Houston Astros at Daikin Park, with Soto striking out in a crucial ninth inning at-bat. Despite the loss, the 26-year-old superstar showcased exactly why the Mets invested so heavily in him this offseason.

Thomas Shea-Imagn Images

A Promising Start

Soto wasted no time getting on base in his Mets debut. In his first at-bat, he roped a single that registered an exit velocity of over 110 mph. He later worked two walks, displaying his elite plate discipline — the trait that takes him from good to great.

After the game, Soto spoke about his initial experience in a Mets uniform and how quickly he’s grown comfortable with his new teammates.

“For me, it was a good experience. These guys are amazing. We’ve been having a good time since spring training, so we’ve just got to bring that all the way.”

His presence in the No. 2 spot immediately adds firepower to the lineup, and though the Mets struggled to capitalize, his ability to get on base set the stage for run-scoring opportunities.

Facing One of the Best

Trailing by two in the ninth, Soto stepped up with two runners on, looking for his first big Mets moment. Facing elite closer Josh Hader, he worked the count full but ultimately struck out on a wicked slider to end the contest.

“We all want to do something in a big spot,” Soto said. “We’re all trying to get the knock and try to bring the runs and try to help the team either way, but for me, I don’t mind taking a walk right there. I have Pete [Alonso] behind me and he’s a really good power hitter, so I think we have a good chance there with a lefty-righty matchup. He just got me in that situation.”

Hader, one of the toughest lefties in the game, proved to be as dominant as ever.

“He’s one of the best closers in the league. His stuff is nasty,” Soto said.

Despite the tough final at-bat, Mets manager Carlos Mendoza saw plenty to be encouraged by in Soto’s debut.

“As a competitor, he always wants to come through,” Mendoza said. “I thought he had some good at-bats today. Even on that one, he got him 3-0 and then 3-1, that pitch that he got there, he just missed it and then a pretty good pitch. But he’ll come through.”

Thursday’s starter, Clay Holmes, echoed that sentiment.

Looking Ahead

The Mets and Soto didn’t get the result they wanted on Opening Day, but his presence in the lineup already looms large. His on-base prowess and ability to work deep counts makes him a game-changer for the club’s offense.

With 15 years still to come, Soto’s Mets career is only just beginning — and he’s no doubt going to be at the heart of this team’s success for a very long time.

The post Juan Soto Impresses in Mets Debut Despite Sour Ending appeared first on Metsmerized Online.

We’ve made it! The 2025 Major League Baseball season is finally here, and we’ve now got New York Mets baseball to look forward to for the next several months.

The hopes and expectations are high around this team. And rightly so. Following a remarkable run to the 2024 NLCS, the front office went all out and signed superstar hitter Juan Soto to a record-breaking contract.

Of course, 2025 shouldn’t be viewed as win-or-bust for the Mets. After all, there are some warts to the roster – hello, starting rotation. Plus, with Soto in Queens for the long-term, the aim is to morph into perennial winners and compete for multiple championships.

Obviously, the Mets will want to win this year and their 2025 World Series bid starts in Houston against the Astros on Opening Day.

To that end, let’s run through the six most compelling storylines as the Mets prepare to raise the curtain on one of the most anticipated seasons in franchise history…

Photo by Ed Delany of Metsmerized

6 KEY STORYLINES

IT’S SOTO TIME!

Let’s get this underway with the obvious starting point. The Mets made a gargantuan statement by signing Juan Soto in the offseason. The four-time All-Star is one of the best hitters to have ever lived. He’s coming off an MVP-type season in which he helped lead the Yankees to the World Series. Now in Queens, Soto will look to help his new team become the new baseball powerhouse.

It was both fun and surreal watching Soto rake in a Mets uniform throughout spring training. It will be even more thrilling to see him put on a hitting masterclass for this team in games that count. Watching Soto step to the plate in Houston for his first competitive Mets at-bat will be must-watch TV.

Furthermore, this lineup has the potential to be one of the best in baseball. Soto and Francisco Lindor have the potential to form a lethal two-headed monster as the one-two hitters. That will then pave the way for Pete Alonso, Mark Vientos and Brandon Nimmo to pile on the misery for opposing pitchers. The Mets could put up some historic offensive numbers in 2025, and Soto will be a huge part of that. This team is now ready to take that next giant leap with Soto in the orange and blue.

Photo by Ed Delany of Metsmerized

FATAL FLAW?

Without doubt the biggest question mark hovering over this team is the starting rotation. The pitching in general has been a hot topic throughout the offseason and for all of spring training. Now is when we will find out just how much of a weakness the rotation will be in 2025. Sean Manaea will miss the start of the season. Frankie Montas is on the IL. Kodai Senga is arguably the biggest pitching X factor, but he’s got a lot to prove after a trainwreck of a 2024 season. We will see if Griffin Canning can build on his strong spring. I’m still not sold on Tylor Megill due to his lack of consistency. There is a lot to like about David Peterson.

And then there is Clay Holmes. The former Yankee closer dominated camp as he made the transition to a full-time starter. He will be on the mound for the Mets on Opening Day. However, expecting Holmes to double, and maybe triple, his workload and not break down at some point is like playing a dangerous game of chicken. It is a very risky strategy. Therefore, it is only natural to be on edge about this rotation.

However, on the positive side, this potent lineup should help take some of the pressure off. Plus, it seems likely that top prospect Brandon Sproat will be called up to The Show at some point in 2025. Furthermore, I wouldn’t be surprised if the front office makes an aggressive move for a true front-end arm at the Trade Deadline. So, if this rotation can patch things up and stay above water until the All-Star break, maybe some of our fears will be allayed.

Photo by Ed Delany of Metsmerized

DON’T REPEAT HISTORY

I’ve written about this elsewhere, and it is worth repeating here – Francisco Lindor can’t afford another slow start. The star shortstop is known for not being able to hit anything in April and May. It is kind of his thing at this point. However, the start to the 2024 season was horrifically slow and bad, even by Lindor’s standards. He started out 1-for-31, hitting just .197/.273/.355.

It goes without saying that Lindor needs to avoid a similar nightmare start in 2025. Starting the season in the leadoff spot should help, as should having Soto coming to the plate after him. Despite a not-so-great spring, hopefully, Lindor has worked out any timing issues so that he’s ready to rake from the get-go on Opening Day.

Having Lindor get off to a hot start will be key to the Mets enjoying a hot start of their own to the season. They can’t afford to be in any kind of hole in what is a hugely competitive NL East division. And they also need to keep pace with the Dodgers if they want to be considered a force in the NL. Furthermore, Lindor starting the year cold will only heap more pressure on the rest of the lineup, and that’s not a good thing.

The Mets need the MVP version of Lindor immediately in 2025.

Photo by Ed Delany of Metsmerized

CHASING HISTORY

Following an exhaustive and uncertain offseason, Pete Alonso is back in Queens. And he will enter 2025 just 26 home runs away from tying Darryl Strawberry‘s all-time franchise home run record of 252. If that milestone is reached this year, that will certainly be worth celebrating on its own. It will also be worth celebrating because it will mean – most likely – that Alonso is having a good year, and the Mets need their first baseman to be at his slugging best in 2025.

We’ve talked ad nauseam about Alonso’s struggles in 2024. That’s partly why his free agency adventure didn’t go as planned, but if the homegrown Met can mash at a high level, hit over 40 home runs, and improve dramatically in clutch situations, then that will help the Mets become a true force in the National League. It should also ensure that Alonso has a few more offers on the table should he decide to hit the open market again next winter.

It also probably shouldn’t be understated how hitting behind Soto should help Alonso. He will likely have plenty of opportunities to come up with monster hits and take over games. Returning to the heights we know he’s capable of will help Alonso fulfill his dream of chasing history and championships in 2025.

Photo by Ed Delany of Metsmerized

ELITE RELIEF

This bullpen has the potential to be one of the best in baseball. A.J. Minter was a huge addition. The Mets lacked a premier set-up man behind Edwin Díaz, and Minter will fill that void and then some. Plus, the lefty has pitched in big games before, and that’s an invaluable intangible. Bringing back Ryne Stanek was also important. As for Díaz, there has been much talk about his fastball losing velocity this spring. That’s a concern, of course. However, despite the odd heart attack, the closer was still elite at times in 2024. He was money down the stretch, and with more help around him, I expect Díaz to still be dominant in 2025 and shut down games as we know he can.

Dedniel Núñez will also be a big piece of this bullpen. The righty pitched to a 2.31 ERA in his rookie year, and a similar output in 2025 will help this unit reach its full potential. José Buttó will be another key relief weapon, while Max Kranick could emerge as the X factor. Kranick was lights out in spring training, pitching to a 1.46 ERA with 15 strikeouts. His ability to pitch multiple innings could be a boon for a bullpen that has an incredibly high ceiling in 2025.

Photo by Ed Delany of Metsmerized

BEGINNINGS & ENDINGS

Brett Baty is approaching a do-or-die start to the 2025 season. After tearing it up throughout camp, Baty must now prove he can put it all together on the biggest stage. If he can avoid his previous struggles in the bigs, then Baty will have a chance to make the second base job his own. Having Luisangel Acuña as an option against lefties could add another potent wrinkle to the lineup, too.

If Baty struggles, then Jeff McNeil will seemingly take over at second once he’s recovered from a mild oblique injury. But, if Baty can parlay his red-hot spring into a strong start to the regular season, then maybe McNeil will become expendable. And, if the young bats impress, then don’t be surprised if Starling Marte finds himself on the outside looking in. The front office is putting a lot of stock into their young position players. This could be the year where youth takes over, and veterans like McNeil and Marte find themselves on new teams.

Enjoy the first series of the 2025 season, and we’ll be back on Monday with the first proper 3 Up, 3 Down of the year!

The post 6 Storylines For The Mets’ 2025 Season appeared first on Metsmerized Online.

Per Astros manager Joe Espada, Christian Walker will get minor league at-bats beginning Saturday. He will do this instead of traveling to Houston on Sunday with the rest of the team, though Espada still expects Walker to be ready for Opening Day against the Mets. Walker has been recovering from an oblique injury and was uncertain to be ready for the start of the season, but it sounds like the Mets will face the slugging first baseman in the opening series.

Kamil Krzaczynski-USA TODAY Sports

Latest Mets News

The Mets defeated the Cardinals 3-2 in Friday’s spring training game. Clay Holmes threw 5 1/3 scoreless innings while Brett Baty hit a home run and a double, increasing his spring OPS to a Grapefruit League-leading 1.123.

The Mets optioned reliever Tyler Zuber to Triple-A Syracuse.

According to Tyler Boronski, a freelance reporter, the Mets signed outfilder Billy McKinney to a minor league deal. The Athletic’s Will Sammon confirmed this. McKinney spent time with the Mets’ big league club in 2021 and was last in the majors with the Pirates in 2024.

The Mets released The Pursuit: Part II on Friday, the second part of a documentary detailing the team’s pursuit of Juan Soto.

In a post on X, SNY announced that the MLB app is now the only location to stream SNY and the Mets on SNY.

Latest MLB News

The Orioles signed pitcher Kyle Gibson to a one-year contract. Gibson spent the 2023 season with the Orioles before heading to the Cardinals for the 2024 season. He had a 4.24 ERA in 30 starts for St. Louis.

Per Chris Cotillo of MassLive, a contract extension for Garrett Crochet prior to the regular season is not likely. Crochet said, “I think that right now, we’re just looking forward to getting through the season.”

The Braves announced that they selected Enyel De Los Santos, Héctor Neris, and Drake Baldwin to the major league roster.

According to Bob Nightengale of USA Today, Rockies infielder Thairo Estrada has a broken wrist and will miss four-to-eight weeks.

Nightengale also reported that the Brewers traded former Met Mark Canha to the Royals for cash or a player to be named later.

Commissioner Rob Manfred announced that former Dodgers pitcher Julio Urías will be suspended until the All-Star break for violating the league’s Joint Domestic Violence, Sexual Assault and Child Abuse Policy.

Latest on MMO

Kai Chang writes about Luis Torrens succeeding in the starting catcher role this spring.

Jack Markowski breaks down the latest spring training start from Kodai Senga.

On This Date in Mets History

Born On This Date: Edwin Díaz (1994), Ike Davis (1987), Joe Smith (1984), Juan Uribe (1979), Jeremy Griffiths (1978), Cory Lidle (1972), Dan Boitano (1953).

The post Morning Briefing: Christian Walker Likely to Play Opening Day Against Mets appeared first on Metsmerized Online.