Amazin' Daily Briefing

Amazin' Daily Briefing: February 15th, 2025

Spring training is in full swing for the New York Mets in Port St. Lucie, Florida. With key players checking in, injury updates, and exciting live batting practice moments.

Inside the Mets’ Offseason: David Stearns Opens Up on Juan Soto, Pete Alonso, and a New Pitching Strategy

The Mets’ offseason was one for the books, and few know that better than David Stearns, the team’s President of Baseball Operations. In a recent interview, Stearns pulled back the curtain on the team’s major moves—including the blockbuster acquisition of Juan Soto, the return of Pete Alonso, and a bold pitching experiment with Clay Holmes.

As the Mets gear up for the 2025 season, Stearns shared key insights into the front office’s strategy and why this year’s team could be the most dangerous in recent memory.

Why Juan Soto Chose the Mets

Landing Juan Soto was the crown jewel of the Mets’ offseason, but what sealed the deal for the generational superstar? According to Stearns, it wasn’t just about the money—it was about the vision.

“We tried to present an organization that cared about him, cared about his family, and was ready to compete at a high level for the duration of a very long commitment,” Stearns said.

Soto, known for his disciplined approach at the plate and postseason heroics, saw the Mets as a team ready to contend immediately—and for years to come. Pairing him with Francisco Lindor and a powerful lineup, the Mets are positioning themselves as an offensive powerhouse.

Pete Alonso’s Return: A Franchise Cornerstone

Stearns made it clear that re-signing Pete Alonso was a top priority, reinforcing just how integral the slugging first baseman is to the club.

“He makes us better. There's no question about it,” Stearns said.

Alonso, a fan favorite and one of the game’s premier power hitters, provides the Mets with a steady offensive presence. With Soto, Lindor, and an emerging star in Mark Vientos, this lineup could be among the most formidable in baseball.

A New Approach to Pitching Depth

One of Stearns' biggest takeaways from last season? You can never have too much pitching.

“Regardless of how much starting pitching you think you have… you need more,” he emphasized.

Last year, the Mets found themselves scrambling for arms early in the season. This time, they made sure to reinforce the rotation with both veteran depth and high-upside arms, aiming to withstand the grueling 162-game schedule and a potential deep October run.

Clay Holmes: The Mets’ Wild Card?

Perhaps the most intriguing move of the offseason is the Mets’ decision to experiment with Clay Holmes as a starting pitcher.

Holmes, primarily known as a dominant reliever, is being given a chance to transition into the rotation—something rarely seen at this stage of a pitcher’s career.

“His stuff package profiles as a starter,” Stearns explained, noting that his changeup development could be a game-changer.

If the experiment works, the Mets may have found themselves a hidden ace. If not, Holmes remains a lethal bullpen weapon.

The Carlos Mendoza Factor

Heading into his second season as Mets manager, Carlos Mendoza has already established himself as a steady and respected leader in the clubhouse. After navigating the ups and downs of his first year, Mendoza has earned the trust of both players and front office executives. His ability to keep the team focused—regardless of external pressures—has not gone unnoticed.

“Whether we’re going really good or not, he’s the same person,” Stearns said.

That level-headed approach is exactly what the Mets need as they look to turn a promising offseason into a championship-caliber season. Mendoza’s ability to connect with players on a personal level, while maintaining a clear vision for the team’s success, makes him a key figure in the organization’s pursuit of a deep playoff run. His enthusiasm for the game and strategic mindset have already left a mark, and year two could be where his leadership truly shines.

Are the Mets Built for a Deep Run?

Between the Soto acquisition, Alonso’s return, a bolstered rotation, and a steady presence in Mendoza, this Mets team looks primed for a serious postseason push. The question now is whether they can turn potential into results.

What do you think? Do the Mets have what it takes to contend for a title? Drop your predictions below!

Keep up with all the latest Mets news on Shea Scoop!

Spring Training Day 5 Update: Mets in Full Swing

Key Players Arrive

Spring training is in full swing for the New York Mets in Port St. Lucie, Florida. Fans are buzzing with excitement as key players like Jeff McNeil and Starling Marte begin checking into camp, signaling that the season is just around the corner. The first full-squad workout is set for Monday, and the energy is building.

Brandon Nimmo's Recovery Progress

One of the most talked-about updates comes from Brandon Nimmo, who has been working out in the area all winter. Nimmo revealed that his left foot is currently at 91% running capacity, an impressive level of recovery after battling plantar fasciitis last postseason. To ensure full health for the regular season, Nimmo plans to sit out the first 7-10 games of spring training, sticking with his strategy from past seasons.

Live Batting Practice Highlights

On the pitching side, Tyler McGill threw live batting practice today, but the real buzz came when Brett Baty launched a monster shot off the foul pole. The impressive homer left Baty pleased and McGill, understandably, a bit frustrated. Despite the long ball, McGill showed great sportsmanship, giving Baty a fist bump afterward.

Injury Scare with Jett Williams

Unfortunately, not all moments were celebratory. Top prospect Jett Williams took a pitch to the right wrist during live batting practice from Blade Tidwell. Williams quickly reassured reporters that his wrist is fine, noting that it’s wrapped but doesn’t require X-rays. His confident “All good” statement suggests the Mets may have dodged a serious injury to one of their promising young talents.

Looking Ahead to Full-Squad Workouts

With just a few days left until the first full-squad workouts begin, the excitement at Mets camp is palpable. Fans are eagerly watching how these early storylines unfold as the team gears up for another exciting season. Stay tuned for more updates!

Feb. 12: Mets pitchers and catchers participate in first official spring training workout

Feb. 17: Mets' first official full-squad workout

Feb. 22: Mets' first Grapefruit League game, 1 p.m. vs. Astros at Clover Park

March 16: Spring Breakout Prospect Game, 5:05 p.m. vs. Nationals, Palm Beach, Fla.

March 24: Mets' final spring training game, 1:10 p.m. vs. Yankees at Clover Park

Gear up for Spring Training With Official Mets Gear From MLB.com

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On This Day in Mets History

Born on This Date:

Chuck Estrada (1938)
Barry Jones (1963)
Mark Canha (1989)

Died on This Date:

Joe Frazier (2011)

Notable Transactions:

2001: San Diego Padres signed Bobby Jones (New York Mets) as a free agent.
2005: Detroit Tigers signed Vic Darensbourg (New York Mets) as a free agent.
2008: New York Mets signed free agent Brady Clark.
2011: New York Mets signed free agent Jason Isringhausen.
2014: Cleveland Indians signed Aaron Harang (New York Mets) as a free agent.
2020: Tampa Bay Rays signed Brooks Pounders (New York Mets) as a free agent.

Random Player Spotlight

Ramon Castro

Born: March 1, 1976 (Vega Baja, P.R.)
Years with Mets: 2005 - 2009
Position: Catcher

Mets Career Stats:

Games Played: 269
Home Runs: 33
RBIs: 121
Batting Average: .252
Runs Scored: 83
Stolen Bases: 1

Trivia Question of The Day:

Who made the last catch of the 1969 World Series, securing the New York Mets' first-ever championship?

Subscribe to leave comment with your answer. The answer will be posted in tomorrow's Amazin' Daily Briefing!

Trivia Answer (February 14th)

The restaurant owned by former Mets players Ed Kranepool, Ron Swoboda, and Al Jackson was called The Dugout. Located in Manhattan, it was a popular spot for Mets fans and players alike during the late 1960s and early 1970s. The establishment reflected the personalities of its owners, offering a welcoming atmosphere with a baseball-themed ambiance. While it eventually closed, The Dugout remains a memorable part of Mets history, showcasing the bond between the team and its supporters.