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Meet the Mets
The Mets fell to the Marlins 2-0 in their first spring training game of 2021, but honestly, it’s just good to have baseball back. The only runs of the contest came courtesy of a two-run home run by Jesus Aguilar off of Ryley Gilliam.
Brandon Nimmo led off yesterday, which fans should become familiar with. Luis Rojas said the center fielder will serve as the team’s primary leadoff hitter this season.
The Mets made a couple of outs on the base paths, which Rojas attributed to the team being more aggressive overall.
Francisco Lindor went 0-for-2 in his first game as a Met. It’s only been a few weeks, but the superstar is already exceeding the team’s expectations as he settles in.
Lindor’s outgoingness and his leadership have already impressed his new team.
After the game, Lindor explained that extension discussions haven’t quite started, but they will soon.
Lindor painted a rosy picture of his perfect world, and the only thing mission from it is a long-term extension.
In a pregame presser, Sandy Alderson discussed the possibility of extensions for Lindor, as well as Michael Conforto and Noah Syndergaard. He expects negotiations with Lindor and Conforto to begin soon.
He also mentioned the team was interested in George Springer, but only at five years, adding that anything more could have gotten in the way of a Conforto extension. He also discussed the main reasons for his offseason misses.
When asked about the team’s risky pursuit of the problematic Trevor Bauer, Alderson had this to say.
The club talked to Jackie Bradley Jr., but they decided to go in a different direction after learning what it would take to sign him.
Alderson looked back at the hiring of Mickey Callaway, who is currently suspended as he’s being investigated for claims of alleged sexual harassment. Alderson admitted that the team didn’t do its due diligence and was ‘short-sighted’ when hiring Callaway.
Justin Toscano also recounted some of Alderson’s pregame comments.
The Mets made a hire yesterday, bringing Jeff Deline aboard as executive vice president, chief revenue officer.
Tim Britton explored five things that will matter in spring training games, and four thoughts on camp so far. (Paywall Alert)
Anthony DiComo and Tim Healey each shared their latest Mets Mailbag.
Marcus Stroman will start in the team’s second game.
In a tribute to the late Tom Seaver, the club will wear a ‘41’ patch on all home and road uniforms during the 2021 season.
Jay Horwitz remembered Shannon Forde, a trailblazer for women in sports, five years after her passing.
Tony Tarasco discussed his bond with Shea, his thoughts on improving the outfield, and his connection to an iconic Mets moment.
Around the National League East
In yesterday’s game against the Mets, Sandy Alcantara put his attack of the strike zone and his command on display.
Aaron Nola made his spring debut as the Phillies finished in a 4-4 tie with the Orioles.
Philadelphia is likely done spending, at least for now.
The Braves triumphed 5-3 over the Red Sox.
Atlanta expects to have fans at the ballpark in some capacity to start the season, and they will set those numbers soon.
The Nationals lost 7-6 to the Astros after surrendering five runs in the ninth inning.
Pitcher Erick Fedde used his cutter to pitch his way out of trouble, which is progress.
Around Major League Baseball
Former Mets Carlos Gomez and Francisco Rodriguez, as well as Yovani Gallardo, were selected for the Brewers Wall of Fame. The club also announced that Gomez will retire ceremoniously as a member of the Brewers.
Anthony Rendon is building chemistry in year two with the Angels.
The Cardinals’ announcers took umpire Angel Hernandez to task in the first inning of their first game.
Here are six Padres to watch this spring.
The Pirates are planning to begin the year with 20% attendance.
Yesterday at Amazin’ Avenue
I wrote a season preview for reliever Jacob Barnes.
Steve Sypa provided a season preview for catcher Patrick Mazeika.
On Episode 103 of From Complex to Queens, the crew looked at the team’s infield and outfield depth.
This Date in Mets History
On this date in 1966, MLB Commissioner William Eckert ruled that Tom Seaver was ineligible to sign with the Atlanta Braves. This bit of good fortuned helped land The Franchise in New York, where he would make a name for himself and establish himself as the most important player in the organization’s nearly 60-year history.