Blackburn’s Bumpy Start
Paul Blackburn faced some challenges during his second spring training appearance for the Mets on Sunday. After a solid start, getting the leadoff man to ground out, Blackburn encountered a string of tough plays. He allowed a line-drive single to Alex Bregman, walked Triston Casas, and then let another single to Trevor Story load the bases. The right-hander then gave up a two-run, ground-rule double to Masataka Yoshida, and a passed ball by Francisco Alvarez brought in an additional run, pushing the score to 3-0. Blackburn’s difficulties didn’t end there, as he walked Trayce Thompson and was replaced by Douglas Orellana. Another run scored on a ground out. However, thanks to the unique rules of spring training, Blackburn got a second chance and came back in the second inning, where he pitched a 1-2-3 inning with just nine pitches. His final line for the day read four earned runs on three hits with two walks over 1.1 innings, a clear indication that he has some work to do before the regular season begins.
Baty’s Versatility Shines
Brett Baty continued to impress with his defensive skills, making an impressive stop and throw for the final out of the first inning. While he has only played third base in Grapefruit League games, Baty has been taking reps at second base and shortstop, enhancing his versatility and increasing his chances of making the Opening Day roster following Nick Madrigal’s injury. Despite his defensive prowess, Baty’s offensive performance was less stellar, going 0-for-3 at the plate with a strikeout. However, the Mets’ coaching staff is likely more focused on his all-around potential and his ability to play multiple positions, which could prove invaluable in the upcoming season.
McNeil Keeps the Heat On
Jeff McNeil, one of the Mets’ core players, kept up his hot streak with a strong performance at the plate on Sunday. He led off the first inning with a double against Walker Buehler, showcasing his ability to get on base and set the table for his teammates. In the third inning, McNeil continued his offensive surge by laying down a line-drive single against veteran Liam Hendricks with one out. Although he grounded out to second base in the fifth inning, McNeil finished the day 2-for-3 with a run scored, maintaining his consistency and contributing to the Mets’ offense. His performance is a positive sign for the team, as a strong start from McNeil could set the tone for the rest of the lineup.
Siri’s Power Play
Manager Carlos Mendoza’s prediction about Jose Siri’s "real" power turned out to be spot on. Siri, the Mets’ promising outfielder, blasted a three-run homer over JetBlue Park’s Green Monster in the third inning, cutting into the Red Sox’s lead and making it a 4-3 game. Siri’s power surge is a welcome development, as it adds another dimension to the Mets’ offense. He finished the game 1-for-2 with a strikeout and three RBIs. Siri’s home run on Sunday, coming on the heels of another long ball the previous day, suggests that he could be a significant contributor for the Mets this season, especially if he continues to refine his approach at the plate.
Pitching Notes
LHP Brandon Waddell, who signed a minor league deal with the Mets in December and last pitched in the MLB in 2021, entered the game in the third inning. His outing was less than ideal, as he allowed two runs on three hits with a strikeout and a walk over 2.0 innings. Despite the struggles, Waddell managed to get out of the fourth inning with some help from Alvarez, who threw out Bregman at second trying to stretch his RBI-hit after taking a couple of hard fouls off his body. Génesis Cabrera, another left-hander, tossed a scoreless fifth inning with two strikeouts, demonstrating his potential as a reliable reliever. Grant Hartwig also had a solid outing, pitching a scoreless seventh inning of relief. He allowed just one hit and made a throwing error on a pick-off move, but quickly recovered with back-to-back groundouts, ensuring that the mistake didn’t affect the game’s outcome.
Offensive Highlights
The Mets’ offense had a few bright spots despite the loss. Yonny Hernández drove in a run in the eighth inning with a ground out, bringing the score to 6-4. This run was crucial in keeping the Mets within striking distance, showing that the team is capable of mounting a comeback even against a formidable opponent like the Red Sox. While the Mets fell short on Sunday, the performances of players like McNeil, Baty, and Siri provide a glimpse of the potential the team has, especially if they can continue to refine their skills and build chemistry as the spring training progresses.
Upcoming Schedule
The Mets will return home to Clover Park to face the Miami Marlins on SNY at 6:10 p.m. on Monday. Kodai Senga, a key addition to the Mets’ rotation, will make his 2025 spring training debut and is expected to throw one inning. This game will be an important opportunity for Senga to showcase his talents and for the Mets to continue evaluating their roster before the regular season begins. Fans and observers alike will be watching closely to see how Senga performs and whether he can solidify his place in the starting rotation.
