Alvarez Revamps Swing for Consistency
Francisco Alvarez, the young slugger for the New York Mets, is making headlines at spring training in Port St. Lucie, Fla. Coming off an uneven 2024 season, Alvarez is focusing on fine-tuning his swing to achieve greater consistency. In 2024, he slashed .237/.307/.403 with an OPS of .710 over 100 games and 342 plate appearances. Although this performance was just above average, with an OPS+ of 101, Alvarez had a notable late-season power surge, smacking five home runs and posting a 1.000 OPS over the last 15 games of the regular season. However, the postseason proved challenging, as he failed to hit a home run in 43 at-bats over 13 games, with a .577 OPS. Recognizing the need for improvement, Alvarez has made significant adjustments to his swing. Mets hitting coach Carlos Mendoza noted, "I think there’s rhythm now, there’s a better base. The gather, the load. He’s getting himself in a better position. It’s batting practice, so he’s gonna have to play around with the mechanics because there’s some major adjustments there." Mendoza emphasized the importance of a middle-of-the-field approach, encouraging Alvarez to use the whole field and refine his at-bats. Despite anticipated placement lower in the lineup, with the top five spots likely filled by Francisco Lindor, Juan Soto, Mark Vientos, Pete Alonso, and Brandon Nimmo, Alvarez’s potential as a difference-maker is undeniable. His 25 home runs in 123 games in 2023 speak to his explosive power and the expectation that he can significantly contribute to the team’s success in 2025.
Clay Holmes Steps into the Starting Role
Clay Holmes, a seasoned reliever, is making a significant transition to the starting rotation for the Mets in 2025. He will take the mound in the team’s first Grapefruit League game this Saturday at 1:10 p.m. on SNY. According to Mets manager Carlos Mendoza, the plan is for Holmes to pitch three innings and throw around 40 to 45 pitches. Holmes, who signed with the Mets in December, is determined to meet the demands of the starting role. "It’s hard to just put arbitrary numbers on things and say, ‘If you hit this number, that’s all you can handle.’ I don’t believe in that," Holmes said, expressing his belief in pushing beyond limits. "I think there’s definitely things you need to monitor, to see how your body’s holding up and the strength and mobility things. … I want to throw as many innings as I can." Last season, Holmes accumulated 63.0 innings over 67 appearances for the Yankees. His adaptability and determination to succeed in a new role are key assets for the Mets as they look to bolster their starting pitcher lineup.
Edwin Diaz Shines in Bullpen Session
Edwin Diaz, the Mets’ ace closer, demonstrated his dominance during a live bullpen session on Wednesday. Diaz, who has been a formidable presence on the mound, struck out Starling Marte looking, a testament to his sharpness and command. Carlos Mendoza commented on Diaz’s performance, noting that he "looked good" and touched 96 mph. "He’s around the plate. Like the breaking ball — the slider," Mendoza added, highlighting Diaz’s precise control and formidable arsenal. A significant point of emphasis for Diaz this season will be controlling the running game. Mendoza explained, "That’s gonna be a big difference this year, especially with him. Not a secret — controlling the running game. A little bit quicker to the plate, so those are some of the things that he’s working on. It was good to see that today." Diaz’s ability to pitch effectively and manage the basepaths will be crucial as the Mets aim to maintain a strong bullpen and competitive edge.
Alvarez’s Potential and Lineup Dynamics
Despite the adjustments and the potential challenges, Francisco Alvarez remains a vital part of the Mets’ lineup. His ability to turn things around with a late-season power surge in 2024 and his impressive 2023 performance underscore his potential. Mendoza and the coaching staff are optimistic about Alvarez’s new approach, which focuses on rhythm and a middle-of-the-field strategy. While he may start the year toward the bottom of the lineup, Alvarez’s presence provides a potent threat, capable of changing the course of games with a single swing. The Mets’ lineup, with stars like Francisco Lindor, Juan Soto, Mark Vientos, Pete Alonso, and Brandon Nimmo, is one of the strongest in the league. Alvarez’s role, regardless of his position in the batting order, will be to add depth and power, ensuring the Mets remain a formidable offensive force.
Holmes’ Ambitions and Team Impact
Clay Holmes’ transition from a reliever to a starter is a bold move that could have a significant impact on the Mets’ pitching staff. Having pitched 63.0 innings in 67 appearances for the Yankees last year, Holmes brings valuable experience and a strong work ethic to the team. His goal of throwing at least 160 innings this season reflects his ambition and confidence in his abilities. The coaching staff is supportive of Holmes’ efforts, with Mendoza outlining the plan to gradually build his stamina and effectiveness. Holmes’ ability to adjust and thrive in a new role will be crucial for the Mets, providing depth and flexibility in their starting rotation. His performance in the Grapefruit League opener will be a key indicator of his readiness and potential for the upcoming season.
Diaz’s Focus and Defensive Enhancement
Edwin Diaz’s bullpen session was not just about showcasing his pitching prowess but also about refining his defensive skills. Controlling the running game is a critical aspect of his development this season, as noted by Mendoza. During the session, Diaz threw over to first base multiple times, demonstrating his commitment to this new focus. His performance, touching 96 mph and showing precise control with his slider, is promising. As the Mets’ closer, Diaz’s ability to prevent stolen bases and control the game tempo is as important as his strikeout capability. The team’s defensive strategies and overall performance will benefit greatly from Diaz’s improvements, ensuring that the Mets remain a well-rounded and competitive team in 2025.
