Clay Holmes’ Second Spring Start: Impressive Again
Clay Holmes elevated his status once more by delivering a solid performance in his second spring training outing, facing a formidable Houston Astros lineup. The right-hander managed to pitch three scoreless innings, allowing only a double to Christian Walker and striking out a pair. Manager Carlos Mendoza was quick to praise Holmes, noting his consistent use of the zone and a wide array of pitches. "He attacked the zone, used all of his pitches. The second time he’s faced this lineup, a couple of the regulars this time around. I thought the sinker was good, he threw a couple of four-seams that were good, slider, sweeper, the cutter. Overall, just another good outing for him, really good job today," Mendoza said. Despite it being a small sample size, Holmes has now put together six scoreless innings in his Grapefruit League appearances, which is undoubtedly encouraging for a reliever making a transition to starting.
Max Kranick: Fastball Life and Consistent Performance
Max Kranick also demonstrated his prowess during his second spring training outing, showcasing impressive fastball velocity that topped out around 97 mph. The right-hander finished two perfect innings, striking out two batters, including an 11-pitch battle with outfielder Quincy Hamilton. Mendoza highlighted Kranick’s aggressive approach and the effectiveness of his fastball. "Once he made that transition to the bullpen last year the velo kicked up, and that’s what we’re seeing from him right now. He’s sitting consistently in the mid-90s and is throwing strikes. That’s what you want to see from these guys, especially in that role where he’s a multiple-inning type of guy, but he can bring that velo in and can throw strikes," Mendoza explained. Kranick’s consistent performance and velocity make him a strong candidate to secure a spot in the Mets’ bullpen if he can maintain this level of play.
Brett Baty: Red-Hot Start Continued
Brett Baty, the young Mets slugger, is off to a red-hot start in spring training, continuing to impress with his bat. During Thursday’s victory, Baty launched his second home run of the spring over the right-field fence, bringing his average to an impressive .545 and his OPS to a staggering 1.721 over his first 11 at-bats. Mendoza praised Baty’s plate approach and power, emphasizing his ability to hit the ball hard and use the entire field. "He’s doing a lot of good things at the plate right now. He’s hitting the ball hard and staying inside the baseball. When he gets his pitches to hit, he’s not missing them, and he’s using the whole field. We’ve seen him stay up the middle, he pulled it today, he’s gone the other way a few times," Mendoza said. Baty’s consistent performance this spring is particularly significant given that infielder Nick Madrigal is expected to miss significant time with a shoulder injury, which could open up a spot on the Opening Day roster for the 25-year-old.
Brandon Sproat: Top Prospect Begins Spring Action
The Mets’ top pitching prospect, Brandon Sproat, is set to take the mound for his first spring training start on Friday against the Nationals. The game, which can be viewed on SNY at 1:10 p.m., will be a crucial opportunity for Sproat to showcase his skills. Even with the early-season injuries to Frankie Montas and Sean Manaea, Sproat is expected to begin the season back in Triple-A to further hone his abilities. However, his significant upside and rapid development last year make him a player to watch. Despite struggling with a 7.35 ERA and allowing seven homers in his final seven appearances with Syracuse, the organization remains high on Sproat. "There’s a lot to like about him. He’s got five pitches and the ability to spin the baseball, whether it’s the short slider, sweeper, the changeup is really, really good, and then he’s got velo. Everything I’ve heard about him, whether it’s the makeup, the compete, how much he cares, it’s exciting," Mendoza said earlier in camp.
Justin Hagenman: Solid Follow-Up Performance
Following Sproat’s start, RHP Justin Hagenman is set to take the mound. Hagenman made a strong debut in spring training, throwing two innings without allowing a hit. His performance was characterized by precision and control, traits that are essential for any pitcher looking to make the leap to the major leagues. Hagenman’s outing was a promising sign for the Mets, indicating that their pitching depth is robust and ready to support the team. Mendoza’s comments on Kranick and Hagenman highlight the organization’s focus on developing pitchers who can consistently throw strikes and bring velocity, essential qualities for success in the bullpen or as a starter.
Spring Training Momentum Builds
Spring training is proving to be a period of significant development and positive momentum for the Mets. Players like Clay Holmes, Max Kranick, and Brett Baty are setting a high bar with their performances, while prospects such as Brandon Sproat and Justin Hagenman are showing the potential that makes them key to the team’s future plans. Despite the setbacks from injuries to Montas and Manaea, the Mets have a wealth of talented players ready to step up. The upcoming games, especially with Sproat’s debut, will be crucial in determining which players will make the Opening Day roster and how the team will shape its pitching staff for the upcoming season. The early results are certainly encouraging, and Mets fans have plenty to be excited about as the spring training competition heats up.
