Things are about to get interesting for the Mets. With Opening Day right around the corner, Carlos Mendoza is putting the final touches on his lineup. All eyes are on one of the biggest names in the MLB: Juan Soto.
The contract the Mets signed him to was easily a record breaker in the history of Major League Baseball.
Soto and Alonso Is A Potentially Lethal Duo
Soto’s move across town from the Yankees was nothing short of shocking. Big trades happen all the time, but seeing a star of his caliber switch boroughs is rare.
The pressure is on for him to adjust quickly and form a deadly one-two punch with Pete Alonso. According to Mendoza in a media interview, he is already tinkering with the idea of Alonso hitting right behind Soto. Honestly, that sounds like a nightmare for opposing pitchers.
Of course, things aren’t all smooth sailing for Mendoza. Injuries are already creeping in, with lefty Sean Manaea working his way back and Nick Madrigal facing a lengthy evaluation period.
But that’s spring training for you—every team’s dealing with something. The real question is how Mendoza adapts. So far, he seems confident in his options.
Mets Prospect to Watch Is Ryan Clifford
Speaking of options, one name that keeps popping up in camp is Ryan Clifford. The kid’s got power—real power.
Mendoza is excited to see him develop, and while Clifford might not be in the Opening Day lineup, he’s a name to watch when midseason adjustments come into play. That depth is a luxury, especially in a long, grueling season.
And then there’s Paul Blackburn, who just made his first appearance in spring training. Mendoza kept it simple: just getting back into game shape is a huge step, and they’re taking things one day at a time. Every bit of progress counts for a team that could use some extra arms.
Mendoza’s Priceless Reaction to the Soto Trade
Let’s pretend we are back to when the Soto trade was just breaking news. Mendoza and Yankees manager Aaron Boone were at dinner together when the bombshell dropped. Mendoza’s reaction was classic. He picks up a magazine, sees a picture of Soto in pinstripes, and just starts laughing.
With the 2025 season looming, it’s time for Mendoza and the Mets to prove that the hype is real. Soto and Alonso in the same lineup is a scary thought for opposing teams. If the Mets can stay healthy and get contributions from some of their young talent, this could be a season to remember in Queens.
