Mets Notes: Lindor Out for WBC, Roster Battles Begin, and Prospect Watch Heats Up
We’re inching closer to the return of baseball, and things are starting to pick up in Queens. With pitchers and catchers reporting next week and spring training games right around the corner, the Mets' offseason storylines are transitioning into early-season intrigue. Here's a full rundown of the latest developments around the Mets, the NL East, and the broader MLB landscape.
Lindor Out for WBC Due to Insurance Restrictions
One of the biggest headlines out of Mets camp is that Francisco Lindor won’t be suiting up for Puerto Rico in the upcoming World Baseball Classic. The reason?
Insurance complications. It’s a tough break for Lindor, who’s been a passionate representative of Puerto Rico in past tournaments and brings a ton of energy to international play.
He’s not alone, either-Javier Báez and Carlos Correa, both key Puerto Rican stars, are also sidelined for similar reasons. It’s a reminder of the complex intersection between player health, team investment, and international competition.
Keith Hernandez Staying in the Booth
On the broadcasting front, Mets fans can breathe easy-Keith Hernandez is sticking around. The Mets legend and fan-favorite analyst has signed a three-year extension with SNY.
Hernandez brings a unique blend of sharp baseball insight and dry wit that’s become a staple of Mets broadcasts. His presence in the booth remains one of the more enjoyable parts of a Mets game, especially during the grind of a long season.
Spring Training Battles: Who’s In the Mix for Opening Day?
With camp opening soon, the competition for Opening Day roster spots is about to get real. Several Mets players are heading into spring training with something to prove.
From fringe bullpen arms to bench bats, there’s plenty of opportunity for players to make an impression early. Keep an eye on how the coaching staff deploys these guys in the first few weeks-those early spring reps can say a lot about who’s in the mix come late March.
Luis Robert Jr.: A Statcast Darling in Center
Luis Robert Jr. is one of the Mets’ most intriguing offseason additions, and the Statcast data backs up the hype. Three key metrics-sprint speed, outs above average, and barrel rate-paint a picture of a player who can impact the game in every phase.
He’s a dynamic center fielder with elite athleticism and real pop at the plate. If he can stay healthy and consistent, Robert Jr. could be a game-changer for this lineup and a cornerstone in the outfield.
Prospect Watch: Keith Law’s Top 20 Mets Prospects
Keith Law’s latest rankings of the Mets’ top 20 prospects offer a snapshot of the farm system’s current state-and it’s a group with some upside, even after the club traded away two of its top five names in the Freddy Peralta deal. The system may not be as top-heavy as it once was, but there’s depth, especially in the lower levels. It’ll be interesting to see who takes a leap in 2026.
Speaking of that, Marco Vargas-who slotted in at No. 26 before the Peralta trade-has now earned a bonus spotlight as one of the system’s more intriguing young talents. Don’t be surprised if he climbs the rankings with a strong showing this year.
Around the NL East: Projections, Pickups, and Staff Moves
The rest of the division has been busy, too. ZiPS projections are out for both the Phillies and Braves, giving us a statistical peek at how the two division rivals might stack up this season. While projections aren’t gospel, they do offer some insight into roster construction and potential breakout candidates.
In Washington, the Nationals are leaning into player development, hiring several staffers from Driveline Baseball-one of the most forward-thinking training programs in the game. They also claimed lefty Ken Waldichuk off waivers, a pitcher who was once a top prospect and could benefit from a change of scenery.
Keith Law also published his top 20 Marlins prospects list, giving us a clearer picture of the young talent Miami is developing as they continue to build toward long-term competitiveness.
Around MLB: Arbitration Wins, Trades, and a Life-Saving Gesture
Elsewhere around the league, Tigers lefty Tarik Skubal reportedly won his arbitration case and will earn $32 million this season-a massive payday that reflects his rising stock as one of the better arms in the American League. The Tigers also added Framber Valdez, a move that signals they’re pushing to contend now and not looking to move Skubal anytime soon.
The Orioles made a move for utility man Blaze Alexander, adding some versatility to their bench mix.
In one of the most inspiring stories of the offseason, former MLB infielder Dickie Thon donated a kidney to his son, saving his life. Thon played 15 seasons in the big leagues and now adds another chapter to his legacy-this one far more personal and profound.
The Pirates also made a move, signing right-hander José Urquidy, bolstering a rotation that’s looking to take a step forward in 2026.
And with the World Baseball Classic set for March, the list of major league players participating is now official. While some stars like Lindor, Báez, and Correa won’t be able to play, the tournament still promises to showcase some of the best talent in the game on an international stage.
Fan Focus: Which Prospect Will Break Out in 2026?
As the countdown to spring training continues, fans are already looking ahead to breakout candidates in the Mets' system. With a few top names now gone, the door is open for someone new to emerge. That’s the beauty of spring-every prospect has a shot, and every camp brings surprises.
Stay tuned. Baseball is almost back.