The New York Mets are gearing up for an exciting 2025 season following their impressive 2024 NLCS run. Their lineup, featuring superstar Juan Soto, slugger Pete Alonso, and shortstop Francisco Lindor, is looking strong and healthy as the regular season approaches. The team is set to start their season on March 27 with a three-game series against the Houston Astros.
However, concerns linger on the pitching side. Clay Holmes, who led the league in blown saves last season with 13, is slated to be their Opening Day starter. Meanwhile, Kodai Senga will anchor the rotation after a limited 2024 season, during which he only pitched 5.1 innings due to injury.
In addition, southpaw Sean Manaea, expected to be a key part of the rotation, will start the season on the injured list due to an oblique strain. Despite this setback, manager Carlos Mendoza provided a hopeful update, noting that Manaea is progressing and has reached a throwing distance of 90 feet. He is expected to return to action in mid-to-late April.
Manaea, who was solid last season with a 12-6 record, a 3.47 ERA, and a 1.08 WHIP in 32 appearances, was a significant offseason acquisition for the Mets. After spending his first six seasons with the Oakland Athletics, he was traded to the San Diego Padres in 2022. Manaea then signed a two-year deal with the San Francisco Giants, but opted out and signed a lucrative three-year, $75 million contract with the Mets in December 2024.
“He’s throwing, I think he’s up to 90 feet”
Carlos Mendoza provides an update on Sean Manaea’s progression: pic.twitter.com/sapaps8laO
— SNY (@SNYtv) March 19, 2025
With key hitters in place and promising pitchers like Senga and Manaea returning to full health, the Mets are poised for another strong season, though their pitching depth will certainly be tested early on.