The New York Mets will open spring training without several projected regulars in the early slate of games. Manager Carlos Mendoza confirmed Tuesday that catcher Francisco Alvarez, outfielder Luis Robert Jr., and infielders Jorge Polanco and Brett Baty will all be held out as camp begins.
The Mets are opting for caution rather than urgency, especially with four players expected to play major roles in the 2026 lineup.
Brett Baty Recovering From Hamstring Issue
Mendoza revealed that Brett Baty experienced discomfort in his right hamstring a couple of weeks ago. While the injury is not considered serious, the Mets will bring him along slowly to avoid setbacks.
Baty is coming off a solid season in which he hit .254 with 18 home runs and 50 RBIs in 130 games, showing signs of becoming a long‑term fixture at third base. The team expects him to ramp up gradually as spring progresses.
Luis Robert Jr. Focused on Strengthening Program
Newly acquired outfielder Luis Robert Jr. will also be eased into action. Mets trainers are emphasizing a strengthening program designed to help him avoid the lower‑body injuries that have plagued him throughout his career.
Robert, 28, arrives in Queens after a trade from the Chicago White Sox. He hit .223 with 14 homers and 53 RBIs in 110 games last season before a late‑August hamstring strain ended his year. The Mets want him fully healthy before exposing him to game speed.
Jorge Polanco Getting Live Work Before Game Action
Veteran infielder Jorge Polanco, who signed with the Mets after two seasons with the Mariners, will also be held out of early games. Mendoza said Polanco will receive live at‑bats and back‑field work before transitioning into Grapefruit League play.
Polanco hit .265 with 26 home runs and 76 RBIs last season, and the Mets expect him to be a key run‑producer once fully ramped up.
Francisco Alvarez Recovering From Thumb Surgery
Catcher Francisco Alvarez is being handled with extra care after a 2025 season limited to 76 games due to multiple injuries. He hit .256 with 11 homers and 32 RBIs before undergoing offseason surgery to repair a ligament in his right thumb.
The Mets want to ensure Alvarez is fully stable behind the plate before exposing him to game action, especially given his importance to the pitching staff.
Mets Prioritizing Health Over Early Spring Results
While fans may not see these four regulars in early March games, the Mets are confident the conservative approach will pay off. With expectations rising and a deeper roster in place, New York is determined to enter Opening Day with its core healthy and ready.
