In split-squad action, the Mets fell to the Washington Nationals by a score of 11-6 on Sunday at CACTI Park of the Palm Beaches.
Here are the key takeaways…
–Francisco Alvarez came into 2025 spring training showcasing a new batting stance, and the early returns have been pretty strong. Alvarez picked up his second hit in as many games on Sunday and is now 2-for-5 to get things started. He served as the DH in this game, with Jakson Reetz starting behind the plate.
–Jesse Winker doubled to left in his first at-bat, and followed that up with a bases-loaded walk in the third to push across the Mets’ first run of the afternoon. After re-signing with the Mets this offseason, Winker figures to be the club’s fourth outfielder and a left-handed DH option.
-The Mets showed a glimpse at the future with Jett Williams starting at second base and Ryan Clifford getting the start at first. It was a quiet day at the plate for the top prospects though, as they went a combined 0-for-6. Williams did play both second and short, showing off his versatility.
–Nick Madrigal left in the bottom of the first inning after charging a slow grounder to short and falling awkwardly on the throw. Carlos Mendoza later announced that Madrigal dislocated his left shoulder and will undergo an MRI, which could potentially open up a utility spot on the big league roster.
-It wasn’t a great first start of spring for Ty Adcock, as the righty allowed three earned runs, and five runs total, on three hits with three walks in two-thirds of an inning, as Washington put up an early five-spot. Righties TJ Shook and Luis Moreno also allowed a total of five earned runs in what wasn’t the best day for Mets pitching.
-How about 19-year-old Simon Juan? The Mets signed Juan as an international free agent in January 2022 (when he was just 16 years old), and he had a big day on Sunday, going 2-for-3 with four RBI, including a three-run home run in the ninth inning.
Who was the game MVP?
Juan, who belted a three-run homer in the ninth.
Highlights
What’s next
The Mets face the St. Louis Cardinals on Monday afternoon in Jupiter, Fla. First pitch is set for 1:05 p.m.
Pitching prospect Blade Tidwell will start for New York against former Met Steven Matz.
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