Despite spring training not being officially underway, several members of the New York Mets roster are already working out in Port St. Lucie, getting ready for the season. One of them is Freddy Peralta, the new ace, who threw his first live batting practice session of the spring on Saturday. Let’s dive into Saturday’s news!
Mets’ Freddy Peralta stays sharp with first live batting practice session in Port St. Lucie
The Mets made one of the loudest statements of the offseason by trading top prospects Jett Williams and Brandon Sproat to Milwaukee for Peralta and Tobias Myers, a move that clearly signals a win-now mindset. David Stearns leaned on his deep knowledge of the Brewers to acquire a proven frontline starter rather than wait on uncertain development timelines. While the loss of two highly regarded young players stings, the organization prioritized certainty over potential as it eyes immediate contention.
Peralta arrives as more than just rotation depth. Coming off a dominant season highlighted by a 17–6 record, a 2.70 ERA, and over 200 strikeouts for the third straight year, he gives the Mets a reliable, high-end arm entering his prime. His early work in camp has already drawn positive reviews, and his decision to skip the World Baseball Classic underscores his focus on making an immediate impact in New York.
Myers adds another important layer to the deal, providing durability and flexibility after logging heavy innings with strong results in Milwaukee. The looming question is Peralta’s future beyond 2026, as he approaches free agency after playing on a team-friendly option. Given the price paid to acquire him, the Mets appear positioned to explore a long-term fit if he thrives under New York’s spotlight.
Why Brett Baty is a talent the Mets cannot afford to waste In 2026
The Mets’ aggressive offseason additions have created a roster built to win now, but they’ve also sparked tough questions about playing time—especially for Brett Baty. After years of uneven production, Baty finally broke through in 2025, delivering above-average offense with improved power and defensive growth at third base. His performance established him as a legitimate major leaguer, even as the team added veterans like Bo Bichette, Jorge Polanco, and Marcus Semien.
Underlying metrics support Baty’s breakout. His hard contact, barrel rate, and bat speed all ranked well above league average, suggesting his results were no fluke. Defensively, he quieted doubts by showing improved range and instincts, though swing-and-miss issues remain a concern. Projections for 2026 generally expect similar production, but they diverge sharply on how often he’ll play, reflecting the uncertainty created by the infield logjam.
With Bichette potentially sliding to third and DH at-bats spread around, Baty’s clearest value may come from versatility—whether that’s time at third, left field, or as a left-handed DH option. Trading him now would mean cashing out on an asset just as it’s rising. If he earns consistent at-bats, Baty still has the upside to be a key contributor on a championship-caliber roster.
Former Mets player Terrance Gore dies at 34
Terrance Gore’s passing at age 34 stunned the baseball world, ending the story of one of the game’s most unique figures. Gore built a major league career almost entirely on speed, turning late-inning appearances into chaos for opposing teams. Though he rarely swung a bat, managers trusted him in the biggest moments because his presence alone could change a game.
Across eight MLB seasons, Gore logged just 74 at-bats but stole bases at an elite rate, succeeding more than 80 percent of the time despite everyone knowing he was running. His minor league career only reinforced that reputation, with hundreds of stolen bases showcasing a skill set that made him invaluable in October. Mets fans briefly experienced that spark during his short stint in New York, where his speed coincided with team success.
Gore also became synonymous with postseason success, earning World Series rings with the Royals, Dodgers, and Braves. He was a specialist in the purest sense—an energy-changer whose impact extended beyond box scores. Baseball has seen plenty of fast players, but Gore’s career proved that one extraordinary tool, used perfectly, can leave a lasting legacy.