Here’s an inside look at some issues facing the Mets as the 2025 season approaches:
Best position battle
The Mets appear set throughout the field and even within the starting rotation. If there’s any kind of competition, it likely will be in the bullpen, where names such as Danny Young, Justin Hagenman, Kevin Herget, Tyler Zuber and Austin Warren could come into play for the final spot. Of course, it only takes a sore arm from a pitcher already on the projected roster for the rotation or bullpen dynamic to change. Last spring it happened early, with the shoulder strain that pushed Kodai Senga to the sidelines.
Most intriguing minor leaguer
Brandon Sproat has emerged as the organization’s top pitching prospect and will bring a bit of energy to the early Grapefruit League action. The right-hander’s triple-digit heat helped him reach Triple-A for his final seven starts of last season after beginning the year at High-A Brooklyn. Sproat, the organization’s pitcher of the year in 2024, recorded 131 strikeouts in 116 ¹/₃ innings. Blade Tidwell, who received innings last spring training with the major league team, is another high-upside arm that will be evaluated.
Story to watch develop
In the aftermath of Juan Soto’s arrival, Starling Marte was told the Mets would look to trade him so he could receive a better chance for playing time. A trade hasn’t materialized, leaving Marte in a part-time DH role. Marte is at best the team’s fifth outfielder in a crowded scene that also includes Tyrone Taylor and Jesse Winker as backups. Is it possible Marte (and the remaining $19 million on his contract) still gets traded? If not, how will he respond to limited playing opportunities?
