Astros Cruise to 5-1 Victory Over Mets in Spring Training Clash

On March 6, 2025, the Houston Astros defeated the New York Mets 5-1 in a spring training game at Clover Park in Port St. Lucie, Florida. The Astros’ balanced attack, featuring a standout performance from prospect Cam Smith, and a strong pitching effort overwhelmed the Mets in this Grapefruit League matchup, showcasing Houston’s depth early in the preseason.

The Astros struck first in the opening inning against Mets starter Brandon Sproat, a highly regarded prospect making his spring debut. Sproat struggled with his command, allowing two runs over two innings on four hits, with a walk and two strikeouts. Houston capitalized early, with Chas McCormick driving in a run via a single, setting the tone for the game. McCormick’s hit was part of a 1-for-3 day, reinforcing his steady spring presence.

Houston’s offense continued to roll in the third, adding two more runs to push the lead to 4-0. Cam Smith, a third baseman and one of the Astros’ top prospects, delivered the highlight of the day with a two-run home run—his first of the spring—off Mets reliever Edwin Díaz. Smith, who went 2-for-3 with two RBIs and a run scored, showcased his power and poise, earning buzz on X as a “freak” and a potential star in the making. Díaz, the Mets’ closer, had a rare rough outing, surrendering two runs on two hits in just 0.1 innings, a stark contrast to his typically dominant form.

The Astros tacked on their fifth run later in the game, though specific details of the scoring play are less clear from available sources. Posts on X and box score data confirm the final tally, with Houston’s offense finishing 4-for-14 with runners in scoring position, leaving eight runners on base but converting enough opportunities to secure the win.

On the mound, Astros starter Rhett Kouba was stellar, tossing three scoreless innings. He allowed three hits and a walk while striking out three, keeping the Mets’ lineup—including stars like Francisco Lindor—at bay. Kouba’s outing was a promising sign as he competes for a spot in Houston’s pitching plans. The Astros’ bullpen, featuring arms like Josh Hader (who earned the win), maintained the lead, with Hader navigating a high-leverage situation effectively.
​
For the Mets, the offense struggled to find rhythm against Houston’s pitching. Mark Vientos was a bright spot, going 3-for-3 and boosting his spring average, but his efforts couldn’t spark a broader rally. Lindor drove in New York’s lone run with an RBI single in the fifth off reliever Forrest Whitley, cutting the deficit to 4-1. However, the Mets went just 1-for-11 with runners in scoring position and left 12 runners on base, a frustrating stat line that underscored their inability to capitalize.