Spring Signals Change for the Mets-and the Rest of MLB
Francisco Lindor is back in Mets camp, sporting a fresh cast following hand surgery and stepping into a clubhouse that looks-and feels-completely different from the one he left. Gone are many of the familiar faces from last season’s squad, replaced by a new wave of talent and, perhaps more importantly, a new energy.
Lindor and Juan Soto, two of the most prominent voices in the room, didn’t shy away from acknowledging the less-than-ideal vibes that hovered over last year’s team. Now, with a roster overhaul and a clean slate, both stars are hopeful that 2026 brings not just better results, but a healthier clubhouse culture.
And while it wouldn’t have changed his decision, Lindor confirmed that global music icon Bad Bunny offered to cover his insurance to play in the World Baseball Classic. Just another reminder that baseball’s biggest stars are crossing into pop culture in ways we haven’t seen before.
The Mets also made a move behind the plate, claiming World Series-winning catcher Ben Rortvedt off waivers from the Dodgers. Rortvedt brings championship experience-and an imposing physical presence-to a team that’s reshaping its identity. His strength and defensive reliability could make him a valuable asset in a catching corps that needs some stability.
On the mound, new closer Devin Williams is already making waves in early spring bullpens. Known for his devastating changeup, Williams is expanding his arsenal, working on a sharper cutter and a developing gyro slider. If he gets those pitches dialed in, the back end of the Mets bullpen could become a nightmare for opposing hitters.
Around the NL East
In Philadelphia, Bryce Harper responded publicly for the first time to GM Dave Dombrowski’s recent comments suggesting he’s no longer viewed as “elite.” Harper, never one to back down from a challenge, was clearly surprised by both the substance and the delivery of the remark. Expect that to add a little extra fuel to his fire heading into the season.
Meanwhile, things aren’t looking much better for the Braves’ rotation. Rookie Hurston Waldrep is out indefinitely after loose bodies were discovered in his elbow. It’s a tough blow for a team already navigating some uncertainty on the mound.
Over in Miami, there’s better news. Jurickson Profar, who underwent sports hernia surgery in November and spent six weeks recovering, is now fully cleared and ready to go for Spring Training. The Marlins will be counting on his versatility and veteran presence as they look to stay competitive in a tough division.
Around Major League Baseball
As MLB continues to evolve, the league is officially entering the Automated Ball-Strike (ABS) era. One of the more visible changes?
Broadcasts will no longer use a solid dot for strikes and a hollow dot for balls on the K-zone graphic. It’s a small tweak, but one that signals a shift toward full integration of robo-umps-and the ongoing modernization of how we watch the game.
In San Diego, Nick Castellanos is officially a Padre. Clean-shaven and ready for a fresh start, Castellanos met with the media following his arrival. The Padres are betting that a new environment can help unlock the consistency that’s eluded him in recent seasons.
Tampa Bay’s Edwin Uceta, who once had a brief stint with the Mets, won’t be pitching for the Dominican Republic in the upcoming World Baseball Classic due to a lingering shoulder issue. It’s a setback for the national team, but also a reminder of how fragile pitching depth can be-especially this time of year.
The defending champion Texas Rangers added another familiar face to their spring mix, signing veteran outfielder Mark Canha to a minor league deal. The invitation to Spring Training gives Canha a chance to prove he’s still got something left in the tank, and if he does, he could be a valuable piece off the bench for a team with title aspirations.
And in Los Angeles, Manny Machado made it clear: he’s all in on the Dodgers’ spending spree. While some fans and rivals may raise eyebrows at the size of the payroll, Machado isn’t complaining. For him, it’s simple-money brings talent, and talent wins games.
Finally, today marks 14 years since the passing of Hall of Fame catcher Gary Carter at age 57. A beloved figure both on and off the field, Carter’s legacy still resonates deeply with Mets fans and the baseball community at large.
Spring is here, and with it comes the usual mix of optimism, intrigue, and uncertainty. The Mets-and the rest of the league-are already writing the first chapters of what promises to be another unforgettable season.