5 former NY Mets players who made the most of spring training this year

Keeping tabs on an ex is usually a bad idea, but that does not stop anyone from asking a friend how they are doing now and then. The New York Mets have a few of those situations playing out this spring, with former players popping up in new uniforms and giving fans a reason to check the box scores a little closer. A handful have put together strong spring performances, making those quick updates a little more interesting. It is harmless curiosity more than anything, but it is hard not to notice when those familiar names start showing up.

Mets fans saw several former players put together strong spring training performances in new uniforms

Luisangel Acuna thrived in his fresh start

Luisangel Acuna wasted no time making an impression in his new situation after the Mets moved him in the deal for Luis Robert. With a crowded infield that now includes Bo Bichette and Marcus Semien, there simply was not a clear path for him to play every day. The White Sox have given him that opportunity this spring, and he has taken full advantage, hitting .405/.457/.548 with 4 extra-base hits, 3 RBI, 4 stolen bases, and 4 runs scored in 42 at-bats. For the record, he is still not a switch-hitter, no matter how many times it gets said.

Starling Marte stayed steady in his first spring with Kansas City

Starling Marte spent the last 4 seasons with the Mets and was a steady presence both on the field and in the clubhouse, earning respect from teammates, including Juan Soto. His future became uncertain as David Stearns reshaped the roster, and once additions like Luis Robert came in, the path forward was clear. Marte signed with the Royals in early March and put together a solid spring, collecting 6 hits with 3 walks and 2 runs scored in 23 plate appearances, good for a .300/.391/.350 slash line. It was a steady showing that reflects the consistency he has brought throughout his career.

Ryan Helsley off to a strong spring in Baltimore

Ryan Helsley never quite found his footing in Queens after arriving at the 2025 trade deadline, as the Mets’ push to build a dominant bullpen did not go as planned. What stands out now is how different things have looked this spring in Baltimore. Helsley has allowed 0 earned runs over 6 innings, giving up just 3 hits and 3 walks while striking out 8. It is a solid start and a reminder of the arm talent that made him such an intriguing addition in the first place.

Brandon Nimmo impressed in a strong spring

Brandon Nimmo was one of the most notable departures of the offseason, ending a 10-year run with the Mets, where he became both a fan favorite and a respected clubhouse presence. Known for his professionalism and steady approach, he was the piece in the deal that brought Marcus Semien over from Texas. Now in a new situation, Nimmo put together an impressive spring, hitting .303/.452/.697 with 3 homers, 10 RBI, 9 runs scored, and 7 walks in 42 plate appearances. It was the kind of all-around production that has defined his game.

Jett Williams impressed in a strong spring showing

Jett Williams was one of the Mets’ top prospects and the other key piece in the deal for Freddy Peralta, a move influenced by both roster additions like Marcus Semien and Luis Robert and the emergence of Carson Benge. With limited space to break through, he became part of the cost to upgrade the rotation. Now with Milwaukee, Williams put together a strong spring, hitting .333/.455/.556 with 3 extra-base hits, 3 RBI, and 2 stolen bases in 17 at-bats. He did not make the Opening Day roster, but the performance was a good reminder of the talent that made him a sought-after piece.