Your Friday morning dose of Mets and Major League Baseball news, notes, and links.
Meet the Mets
The Mets had the day off yesterday, but they’re set to play their first game of the season in Queens as they host the Blue Jays this afternoon. First pitch is scheduled for 3:10 PM EDT.
On the 25th anniversary of the 2000 team and the 10th anniversary of the 10th anniversary of the 2015 team, the Mets will have Al Leiter and John Franco paired up alongside Bartolo Colón and Juan Lagares for the ceremonial first pitch today.
Pete Alonso is very excited to return to Citi Field today.
Early in his minor league career, Juan Soto spent three weeks living with a host family, and he’s remained in touch with them throughout his major league career.
The Mets are bolstering their scouting presence in Japan and the Pacific Rim.
Adam Ottavino is looking to be a manager after his playing career ends, and playing in the Dominican Republic over the winter both inspired him and broadened his cultural knowledge of a country that is passionate about baseball.
As always, the Mets have some new food options at Citi Field this year.
Tim Britton took a look at twelve Mets prospects to watch early in the season.
Around the National League East
The Phillies completed a sweep of the Rockies to improve to 5-1 on the season.
The Braves acquired catcher Jason Delay from the Pirates and moved Reynaldo López, who hit the injured list earlier this week, to the 60-day IL to open up a spot on their 40-man roster.
Around Major League Baseball
The Red Sox scored eight runs in a win over the Orioles.
The Astros topped the Twins with a 5-2 win.
The Yankees avoided a sweep at the hands of the Diamondbacks as they held on for a 9-7 win in The Bronx.
The Brewers eked out a 1-0 win over the Reds.
The Mariners have two starting pitchers named Luis Castillo, and the lesser-known of the two will make a start today after the three-time All-Star started the team’s series finale against the Tigers on Wednesday.
The city of St. Petersburg will spend $22.5 million to repair the roof at Tropicana Field in hopes of getting the Rays back in there in 2026.
Tigers assistant general manager Sam Menzin has resigned.
Yesterday at Amazin’ Avenue
Pete Alonso is off to a fantastic start at the plate, and Brian Salvatore took a look at what he’s been doing so far.
This Date in Mets History
The Mets hit a whopping six home runs on Opening Day in Montreal on this date in 1988.