General Talks
The "New-Look" Mets: Can Steve Cohen’s Vision Finally Deliver a Pennant?
Steve Cohen is reshaping Queens. With a fresh roster and a bold strategy, is this the year the Mets take the NL? See if the vision leads to glory.
The sun was shining over Clover Park on Wednesday morning, but the cloud of medical reports provided a sobering contrast to the usual "best shape of my life" optimism that defines mid-February.
As the New York Mets opened full squad workouts this week, the narrative for the 2026 season has firmly shifted from the departures of the past to the high-stakes gamble of the present. With Pete Alonso now in the rearview mirror, this is officially the Juan Soto and Francisco Lindor era—and it’s starting with a test of depth before a single Grapefruit League pitch has been thrown.
The Lindor Anxiety
The headline news remains Francisco Lindor’s hand. The superstar shortstop, entering the sixth year of his mega-deal, is recovering from surgery to repair a hamate fracture. While Lindor flashed his trademark smile on Wednesday and expressed confidence about being in the Opening Day lineup, management is taking zero chances.
"We’re going to be smart," manager Carlos Mendoza said during his morning briefing. "He’s doing his progression. We know what Francisco means to this team. March 26 is the goal, not February 21."
The "Slow Play" for the Stars
Lindor isn’t the only key piece being wrapped in bubble wrap. The Mets confirmed Wednesday that several projected starters will be "eased into action" and are unlikely to appear in early exhibition games.
Luis Robert Jr., the centerpiece of the blockbuster winter trade with the White Sox, is focusing on lower-body strengthening.
Francisco Álvarez, coming off offseason thumb surgery, will be held back until at least the second week of games.
Brett Baty is dealing with a minor hamstring tweak, a frustrating start for the young infielder looking to solidify his role.
Life After Pete: The New Power Grid
The visual of a Mets camp without No. 20 taking batting practice is jarring, but the front office has assembled a "Avengers-style" lineup to fill the void. The buzz around the cages today wasn't about who left, but who arrived.
Juan Soto, sporting Mets blue, put on a laser show during batting practice that drew a crowd of minor leaguers to the back fields. The pairing of Soto with new arrival Bo Bichette (slated to see time at third base) and veteran Marcus Semien gives the Mets a distinctively different offensive profile: less reliance on the three-run homer, more relentless contact and on-base skills.
"It’s a different look," said new ace Freddy Peralta, who arrived from Milwaukee in the winter's other massive trade. "Facing this lineup in practice... there's no breaks. 1 through 9, it's a grind."
Pitching Notes: Waddell Gets the Nod
On the mound, the rotation shuffling continues due to injuries. With Tylor Megill and Dedniel Núñez already moved to the 60-day IL with elbow issues, the Mets are testing their depth early.
Mendoza confirmed that lefty Brandon Waddell will start the Grapefruit League opener this Saturday against the Marlins. It’s a showcase opportunity for Waddell, who is fighting for a long-relief role in a bullpen now anchored by newcomer Devin Williams.
The Verdict
The vibe in Port St. Lucie is strictly business. Owner Steve Cohen has made it clear that the "transition years" are over. Despite the early injury bugs, the talent floor of this roster is higher than it has been in years.
"We aren't looking for a captain," Cohen said earlier this week, shutting down rumors of a new "C" on a jersey. "We are looking for a championship."
For a team with a payroll this high and a roster this revamped, anything less will be considered a failure.
Next Up: The Mets open their Grapefruit League schedule Saturday at 1:10 PM EST vs. the Miami Marlins.