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Mets Morning News
MLB Network finalized their Top 100 Right Now, which ranks MLB’s top 100 players, right now. Brandon Nimmo (89), Dominic Smith (67), Pete Alonso (66), Jeff McNeil (35), Michael Conforto (34), Francisco Lindor (15), and Jacob deGrom (3) were the seven Mets that made the list. The Mets ace finished as the top pitcher on the list and landed behind only Mookie Betts and Mike Trout in the overall ranking.
The Mets have signed starting pitcher Taijuan Walker to a two-year deal worth $20 million, with an option.
After the Mets signed Albert Almora Jr. and Kevin Pillar, the odds of the team signing Jackie Bradley Jr. are “practically nonexistent,” according to Andy Martino.
Tim Britton wrote a profile on Mets manager Luis Rojas looking towards his second year of managing (paywall ahead).
Marcus Stroman is looking forward to 2021 after opting out of the 2020 season.
Around the National League East
Phillies catcher J.T. Realmuto will miss at least a portion of Spring Training after breaking the thumb on his throwing hand, though he is expected to be ready by Opening Day.
Federal Baseball profiled Nationals infielder Carter Kieboom.
Talking Chop previewed the 2021 Braves coaching staff.
Around Major League Baseball
The A’s got busy on the free agent marking, signing closer Trevor Rosenthal and slugger Mitch Moreland to one-year deals.
The Mets could not match the A’s offer in money or save opportunities to acquire Rosenthal, according to Joel Sherman.
Former Mets pitcher and current MLB old man Oliver Pérez will return to Cleveland on a minor-league deal for 2021.
The Blue Jays officially announced they will play their first two homestands at their facility in Dunedin, Florida.
Former infielder Brian Dozier announced his retirement after a nine-year MLB career.
Gerrit Cole and Zack Britton will be focusing on competitiveness as the Players Association negotiates a new collective bargaining agreement with MLB.
Blake Snell rehashes some Tampa Bay memories—including a certain memorable Game 6 performance—and looks forward to his time in San Diego.
Yesterday at Amazin’ Avenue
Lukas administered a favorable grade to the Kevin Pillar signing.
This Date in Mets History
The Mets opened their first Spring Training 59 years ago to this day.