Veterans Lead the Charge
The New York Mets are gearing up for the 2025 season with a starting rotation bolstered by seasoned veterans. Sean Manaea, Clay Holmes, Kodai Senga, Frankie Montas, and David Peterson bring a wealth of experience to the clubhouse. These tested pitchers have a track record of success, and their presence is crucial for the team’s stability and performance. Additionally, the possibility of sixth-man options like Paul Blackburn, Griffin Canning, and Tylor Megill adds depth and flexibility to the rotation. However, alongside these veterans, a young talent is making waves in the spring training camp: Brandon Sproat, the club’s top pitching prospect and a 2023 second-round pick.
Rising Star: Brandon Sproat
Brandon Sproat, the 24-year-old right-hander, has been turning heads with his exceptional talent and quick ascent through the minor leagues. At the Mets’ spring training in Port St. Lucie, Fla., Sproat delivered a stellar performance, pitching two innings of live batting practice. Manager Carlos Mendoza praised Sproat’s diverse pitch repertoire, which includes a mid-to-high-90s fastball, a short slider, a sweeper, and a highly effective changeup. Mendoza expressed his enthusiasm for Sproat’s work ethic and his potential, noting that the young pitcher’s makeup and competitive spirit are impressive.
Learning and Development
While Sproat has an outside chance of making the big league roster out of spring training, it is more likely that he will start the season with Triple-A Syracuse, where he finished last year. Mendoza emphasized the importance of Sproat’s continued development, urging him to stay healthy and soak up as much knowledge as possible from the veterans around him. Sproat’s journey through the minor leagues has been a series of successes and challenges. He dominated at High-A Brooklyn and Double-A Binghamton but struggled at Triple-A Syracuse, posting a 7.53 ERA in seven starts. Sproat reflected on this experience, highlighting the importance of staying true to his attacking style and not getting bogged down by poor results.
Embracing Adversity
Mendoza acknowledged that while it might seem counterintuitive, he was somewhat okay with Sproat’s struggles in the minors. These challenges, Mendoza explained, are a crucial part of developing into a successful big leaguer. Sproat himself understands the value of adversity, recognizing that setbacks are inevitable and the key is to bounce back. “You’re going to get knocked down, and you’ve got to find a way to get back up,” he said. This resilience and mental toughness are qualities that the Mets see as essential for Sproat’s future success.
Jett Williams: The Multi-Position Phenom
While Sproat is making waves on the mound, another young talent, Jett Williams, is also making a strong impression in camp. Williams, the Mets’ No. 1 overall prospect, is pushing for a spot on the Opening Day roster. Like Sproat, the most likely scenario is that Williams will start the season in Triple-A Syracuse, but his presence and potential are undeniable. Mendoza praised Williams for his versatility, noting that he can play shortstop, second base, and center field. Williams’ instincts and fearlessness are standout qualities, and Mendoza is excited to see him develop further.
Stearns on Williams: Health and Versatility
President of Baseball Operations David Stearns echoed Mendoza’s sentiments, emphasizing the importance of Williams staying healthy and getting consistent at-bats. Stearns believes that a full, healthy season with 550 plate appearances would be ideal for Williams’ development. In addition to his hitting, Stearns sees Williams as a player who can excel at the three premium positions—shortstop, second base, and center field. While Williams has not yet had extensive reps at second base or center field, Stearns is confident in his skills and tools, and the organization will work to give him more opportunities at these positions. “What I would anticipate, is we’re looking at a player who can play the three premium positions at an average or better level,” Stearns said, underscoring Williams’ exceptional talent and potential.
In conclusion, the Mets are well-equipped for the 2025 season with a strong core of veterans and an exciting crop of young prospects. Brandon Sproat and Jett Williams are key components of the team’s future, and their development will be closely watched as they continue to grow and learn from the experienced players around them.
