Meet the Mets
Marcus Semien’s quiet leadership will be key in getting the Mets’ new infield to jell, writes Laura Albanese of Newsday. Semien is looking forward to a reunion with Bo Bichette and playing alongside Francisco Lindor, he said.
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Anthony DiComo of MLB.com provided his early spring training observations from Port St. Lucie.
Edwin Díaz responded to Steve Cohen’s quote that Díaz’s decision to join the Dodgers was “perplexing” by saying in part, “I think the Dodgers did a great job recruiting me.”
David Lennon of Newsday wrote about the Mets’ strategy for the debut of the automated ball-strike (ABS) challenge system that will debut in the big leagues this season.
This spring, Craig Kimbrel finds himself in unfamiliar territory: he is the most accomplished pitcher in camp with the Mets, but he is not guaranteed a spot on the team.
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To help strengthen his resume, MJ Melendez played some innings at center field in winter ball and is hopeful this added versatility will help secure him a spot on the Mets’ Opening Day roster.
Around the National League East
Braves president of baseball operations Alex Anthopoulos said the Braves are still looking to add an arm to the top of their rotation.
Battery Power projected what the Braves’ Opening Day roster will look like.
The Miami Marlins won their arbitration hearing against righty Calvin Faucher, who will make the $1.8 million offered by the Marlins rather than the $2.05 million figure he filed at. This was the final salary arbitration case of the year; players won eight cases and clubs won four cases.
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The Nationals signed left-hander Cionel Pérez to a minor league deal.
Around Major League Baseball
The Padres went on a spree yesterday, adding Nick Castellanos—recently released by the Phillies—former Met Griffin Canning, and lefty Germán Márquez.
The Diamondbacks signed veteran righty Joe Ross to a minor league deal.
Cal Raleigh provided his reflections on coming in second in a hotly contested AL MVP race last year and how he’s looking to build on that in 2026.
Yesterday at Amazin’ Avenue
Chris McShane previewed what 2026 may hold for Dylan Ross, who will try to compete for a spot in the Mets’ bullpen.
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This Date in Mets History
The Mets reunited with Jason Isringhausen on this date in 2011. The deal actually turned out okay from a baseball perspective and Izzy earned his 300th career save with the Mets in August, but unfortunately he faded in the second half overall after a solid first half.
