Breaking: ‘If you’re not here to win the World Series, you’re not here for any of the right reasons’. – Mets Manager Carlos Mendoza sends strong warning message to Mets players ahead of Spring Training…
As the New York Mets gear up for the 2025 season, manager Carlos Mendoza has set a definitive tone for Spring Training, emphasizing that the ultimate goal is nothing short of a World Series championship. His message to the team is clear: “If you’re not here to win the World Series, you’re not here for any of the right reasons.”
Setting the Championship Standard
Mendoza’s assertive stance reflects the heightened expectations surrounding the Mets this season. With a roster bolstered by key acquisitions and the return of pivotal players, the organization is poised to make a significant impact. Mendoza’s leadership focuses on instilling a championship mindset from the outset, ensuring that every player is aligned with the team’s overarching objective.
Spring Training Kickoff
The Mets’ Spring Training schedule commences with a game against the Houston Astros on Saturday, February 22, 2025, at Clover Park. Clay Holmes is slated to start the opener, with plans to pitch into the third inning, aiming for approximately 50 pitches. Holmes, who arrived at camp over a month ago for early workouts, is ahead in his preparation compared to other pitchers.
The early focus in camp includes adapting to the automated ball-strike system (ABS), which MLB is testing during Spring Training. The Mets participated in a trial run of the ABS at Clover Park, allowing players to challenge ball-strike calls. Each team is allotted two challenges per game, which are retained if the call is overturned. Mendoza acknowledged the learning curve associated with the new system, emphasizing the importance of understanding game scenarios and the speed of challenges.
Rotation Adjustments
The Mets initially planned to implement a six-man rotation; however, a lat strain injury to Frankie Montas has necessitated a shift to a five-man rotation for the first three weeks of the season. Montas, who signed a two-year, $34 million contract, received a PRP injection and will be sidelined from throwing for 4-8 weeks. Despite this setback, Montas remains optimistic about his recovery and future contributions.
In Montas’s absence, the rotation is expected to feature Clay Holmes, Sean Manaea, David Peterson, and Kodai Senga. The fifth spot is a competition among Paul Blackburn, Griffin Canning, and Tylor Megill, with Megill potentially being the odd man out due to minor league options. Holmes’s transition from reliever to starter has been promising, and his performance will be pivotal, especially in early matchups against strong opponents like the Astros.
Player Highlights
The return of key players such as Pete Alonso and the addition of Juan Soto have generated excitement among fans and within the organization. Mendoza expressed his enthusiasm for Alonso’s presence, highlighting his leadership and impact both on and off the field. Alonso’s return, alongside Soto’s dynamic play, is expected to bolster the Mets’ offensive lineup significantly.
Looking Ahead
With a clear directive from Manager Carlos Mendoza, the New York Mets are entering Spring Training with a unified focus on securing a World Series title. The combination of strategic roster moves, adaptation to new technologies like the ABS, and a resilient mindset in the face of challenges positions the team for a competitive season ahead. As the Mets embark on this journey, the commitment to excellence and a championship-driven culture will be the cornerstone of their 2025 campaign.
