Juan Soto made headlines this offseason by signing a record-breaking 15-year, $765 million deal with the New York Mets, which could potentially increase to $805 million with certain clauses. However, Soto has revealed that this wasn't the highest offer he received. In an interview on the Spanish-language Abriendo El Podcast with Dominican reporters Vian Araujo Puello and Ricardo Rodríguez, Soto confirmed that his negotiations boiled down to five teams: the Boston Red Sox, Los Angeles Dodgers, New York Yankees, Toronto Blue Jays, and the Mets. Soto disclosed that "the Mets weren’t the ones who offered the most money," according to NJ.com, hinting that other teams presented more lucrative offers.
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The interview teaser on Instagram ends with Rodríguez asking if Soto would name the teams that offered more. The full podcast is set to release on Sunday, promising more insights. The Yankees, with whom Soto played last season, reportedly offered $760 million over 16 years. Soto emphasized that his decision to join the Mets wasn't solely driven by financial factors, describing it as a "collective decision" during the podcast and his December introductory press conference. He praised the Mets' organization for their commitment to winning and building a dynasty, saying, "What they have done in the past couple years, showing all of the ability to keep winning, to keep growing a team, to try to grow a dynasty, is one of the most important things."

David Stearns has outlined the plan for Brandon Sproat, emphasizing the importance of achieving significant success at the Triple-A level. Stearns believes that Sproat shares this goal and is determined to demonstrate his capabilities in the minors. "We want to see him have significant success at the Triple-A level, I think he wants to prove he can do that as well," Stearns stated.
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Once Sproat showcases his potential in Triple-A, discussions will commence regarding his transition to the major league level. Stearns remarked, "Once we see that, we can start talking about when is the right time at the major league level." This approach ensures that Sproat is fully prepared and ready to make a meaningful impact when he eventually joins the major league roster.

Mets pitcher Kodai Senga's signature pitch, the ghost forkball, now has a song named after it. In 2024, it was "OMG," a tune that became a rallying cry for the New York Mets during their impressive run to the National League Championship Series. That season, propelled by a close-knit team chemistry and former infielder Jose Iglesias's—aka Candelita's—song "OMG," the Mets captured the hearts of their fans. With Iglesias now playing for the San Diego Padres, the Mets might have found a new anthem for 2025 with the release of "Ghost Fork."
Japanese artist Yusuke Kamiji has released a new song titled "Ghost Fork," inspired by Senga's signature pitch. Although it may not unify the team like "OMG," "Ghost Fork" is expected to be a popular tune at Citi Field, especially during Senga's starts. Senga had an outstanding rookie season in 2023, posting a 2.98 ERA with 202 strikeouts in 166 1/3 innings, earning All-Star honors and finishing second in the Rookie of the Year race. Despite shoulder and calf injuries limiting him to just one regular season start in 2024, the 32-year-old righthander is healthy this spring and ready to dominate once again. As Senga prepares to unleash his ghost fork, he'll have the added excitement of hearing a song that celebrates his exceptional pitch.

For the third consecutive year, the New York Mets topped Major League Baseball in spending, amassing $1.36 billion in payroll and luxury tax over the past four years under owner Steve Cohen. This staggering sum surpasses what the Miami Marlins, Pittsburgh Pirates, and Tampa Bay Rays have collectively spent on players over the past 21 seasons. The Mets set a new regular payroll record of $333.3 million in 2024, breaking their previous record of $319.5 million set in 2023, when they became the first team to exceed the $300 million mark.
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In 2024, the Mets' total expenditure reached an all-time high of $430.4 million, including $97.1 million in luxury tax. This record-breaking figure follows their 2023 spending of $420 million, which included a $100.8 million tax. As a result, the Mets have significantly impacted the overall MLB payouts, which have now surpassed $5.1 billion. The Mets' substantial financial commitment demonstrates their determination to remain competitive and underscores the growing financial dynamics within Major League Baseball.

Earlier this offseason, the Kansas City Royals expressed interest in acquiring outfielder Starling Marte from the New York Mets, according to Joel Sherman of the New York Post. While those discussions did not result in a deal, Sherman notes that Kansas City remains somewhat interested in the possibility. Although talks are not currently active, the Royals' lingering interest indicates that they are still exploring options to bolster their outfield and may have some financial flexibility despite their payroll being nearly $20 million higher than last year.
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The Royals would not be taking on Marte's entire salary in a trade. The 36-year-old is entering the final season of a four-year, $78 million contract and is owed $19.5 million in 2025. With a .269/.327/.388 batting line (104 wRC+) last season, Marte's performance has declined, making it unlikely for another team to assume his full salary. However, the Mets have shown a willingness to pay down a portion of Marte's contract, which could make a trade more feasible. As the offseason progresses, it remains to be seen if the Royals will revisit their interest in Marte to strengthen their roster.

Kodai Senga made a successful spring training debut for the Mets, prioritizing health after an injury-plagued 2024. The right-hander, who was limited last season, delivered two scoreless innings, allowing only two singles while throwing 31 pitches. Senga expressed satisfaction with his performance, emphasizing his ability to test new approaches and emerge healthy. He reached a maximum velocity of 96 mph with his four-seam fastball and showcased his full repertoire, including his signature gyro-slider and a newly developed sinker. The slider proved particularly effective, leading to a crucial strikeout.
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The sinker, while still a work in progress, has garnered attention from Mets manager Carlos Mendoza, who believes it could become a valuable weapon for Senga. Mendoza highlighted the pitch's potential to generate ground balls and complement Senga's existing arsenal, which includes a formidable splitter and slider. Senga's ability to manipulate the baseball and add new dimensions to his pitching style reinforces his versatility and potential as a key contributor to the Mets' rotation. The successful outing and the unveiling of the sinker provide a positive sign for Senga and the Mets as they prepare for the upcoming season.

Veteran right-hander Jose Ureña has officially joined the New York Mets on a minor league deal, as reported by Newsday's Tim Healey. Ureña, who is represented by Premier Talent Sports & Entertainment, will participate in the big league camp for the remainder of spring training. The 33-year-old pitcher brings valuable non-roster depth to the Mets' rotation, especially important given the recent injuries plaguing the team.
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The Mets have faced setbacks with their pitching staff as spring injuries impact their rotation. Left-hander Sean Manaea is dealing with an oblique strain, likely resulting in a season-opening IL stint, although he could be back by mid-April. Meanwhile, right-hander Frankie Montas is recovering from a more severe lat strain, which has kept him from throwing for over a month. Montas' best-case scenario return is mid-May. Ureña's addition provides the Mets with a much-needed option to navigate these early-season challenges and maintain their competitive edge.

The Chicago Cubs have traded outfielder Alexander Canario to the New York Mets for cash considerations, according to sources from ESPN. Canario, 24, was designated for assignment by the Cubs last week to make room on the roster for newly signed Justin Turner. Canario, who was acquired by the Cubs in the 2021 trade that sent Kris Bryant to the San Francisco Giants, has shown flashes of potential but has struggled with injuries and consistency. In his limited major league action, Canario hit .286 with two home runs and eight RBIs over 21 games. Despite his raw power and potential, Canario's high strikeout rate and defensive limitations have raised concerns about his long-term viability as a major league outfielder.
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The Mets are hoping that a change of scenery will help Canario unlock his potential and provide depth to their outfield. With his plus raw power and ability to play both corner outfield positions, Canario could be a valuable asset for the Mets if he can stay healthy and improve his plate discipline. The move also gives the Mets flexibility, as Canario's contract includes a $0 buyout for MLB affiliates, allowing him to return to the majors if an opportunity arises. For the Cubs, the trade frees up a roster spot and provides additional financial resources to invest in other areas of need. Both teams will be closely watching Canario's progress as he embarks on this new chapter of his career.

The New York Mets have received unfortunate news regarding starting pitcher Sean Manaea, who is set to begin the 2025 season on the injured list due to a right oblique strain. Manaea, who had a career-best season with the Mets last year, will be shut down from throwing for at least two weeks. This injury comes as a significant blow to the Mets' rotation, which is already dealing with the absence of Frankie Montas due to a lat strain. Manaea's impressive performance last season, where he posted a 3.47 ERA and struck out 184 batters over 181 2/3 innings, earned him a three-year, $75 million contract with the team.
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Despite the setback, the Mets remain hopeful that Manaea will recover quickly and return to form. His contributions were instrumental in the Mets' successful 2024 campaign, which saw them reach the National League Championship Series. The team will now rely on their rotation depth to cover Manaea's absence, with manager Carlos Mendoza expressing confidence in the remaining pitchers. The Mets' front office may also explore external options to bolster the rotation as they aim for a strong start to the 2025 season

New York Mets infielder Nick Madrigal has been diagnosed with a fractured left shoulder after undergoing an MRI. The injury occurred during a spring training game against the Washington Nationals, where Madrigal fell awkwardly while making a play at shortstop. Initially diagnosed with a dislocated shoulder, further imaging revealed the fracture, which will sideline him for an extended period. Mets manager Carlos Mendoza confirmed that Madrigal will be out "for a long time," and the team is now evaluating their options to fill his spot on the roster.

​In addition to Madrigal's injury, Mets left-hander Sean Manaea is set to begin the season on the injured list due to a right oblique strain. Manaea, who recently signed a three-year, $75 million contract with the Mets, will be shut down from throwing for at least two weeks. The injury is expected to delay his return to the mound, and the Mets will need to rely on their rotation depth to cover his absence. This setback comes as the Mets aim for a strong start to the 2025 season, with high expectations following their offseason acquisitions

Nick Madrigal, the Mets' versatile infielder, suffered a dislocated left shoulder during today's Spring Training split-squad game against the Nationals. The injury occurred in the first inning when Madrigal, playing shortstop, had to awkwardly adjust his body to gather a deflected ground ball. He fell to the ground during his throw to first base, resulting in the dislocation. Despite the immediate concern, the full extent of Madrigal's injury won't be known until he undergoes an MRI.
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Mets manager Carlos Mendoza informed reporters, including SNY's Andy Martino, that Madrigal will need the MRI to assess the severity of the dislocation. This injury is a significant setback for the veteran infielder, who will undoubtedly miss some time during the recovery process. Should the MRI reveal a more severe dislocation, it could potentially require surgery, potentially ending Madrigal's 2025 season prematurely. The Mets and their fans are anxiously awaiting the results, hoping for a quick and successful recovery for Madrigal.

The New York Mets are likely done making moves for the offseason, as they aren’t expected to add any more players before Opening Day. Despite some discussion surrounding infield depth, the Mets are not anticipated to bring back veteran shortstop José Iglesias. The 34-year-old, known for his strong defense and solid contact hitting, was with the Mets last spring but ultimately didn’t make the roster. With Francisco Lindor securing the starting shortstop position and other utility players on the roster, the Mets are comfortable with their infield situation heading into the season.
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Iglesias remains a free agent, but a return to the Mets is unlikely at this point. The team has focused on building pitching depth and maintaining payroll flexibility, leaving them with little room to bring in another veteran infielder. The Mets will likely turn to younger players and internal options to fill any infield gaps. Unless there's an injury or unexpected move, the team seems set for the 2025 season, leaving Iglesias to consider opportunities elsewhere.

The New York Mets have agreed to terms with right-handed reliever Ryne Stanek on a one-year deal for the 2025 season.
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Stanek, who posted a 4.88 ERA and 1.319 WHIP over 55.1 innings with the Mets last season, will be a key part of the bullpen once again.

Over his career, Stanek has a 3.65 ERA and 1.280 WHIP in 401 games