NY Mets Opening Day roster prediction 1.0

The 2025 New York Mets are heading into a new era, brimming with potential and fueled by World Series ambition. After an offseason of intense moments, this projected opening-day roster is headlined by the historic signing of Juan Soto.

Likewise, next season will test David Stearns' experiment with a rotation that is highly debated and even criticized by fans. This roster is an interesting mix of the tried-and-true and the innovative, promising, and exciting brand of baseball in Flushing.

A roster with a new superstar, the return of a beloved hitter, and a better bullpen than in 2024

The 2025 New York Mets roster will look to replicate last season's incredible run now with more help in the lineup and bullpen. The team has the potential to go far this upcoming season.

Starting Lineup: a powerful core

1. Francisco Lindor SS
2. Juan Soto RF
3. Brandon Nimmo LF
4. Pete Alonso 1B
5. Mark Vientos 3B
6. Jesse Winker DH
7. Francisco Alvarez C
8. Jeff McNeil 2B
9. José Siri CF

The heart of the Mets' lineup of Francisco Lindor, Juan Soto, Brandon Nimmo, and the return of Pete Alonso will be a powerful core. Alonso's presence at first base is a significant storyline in itself. After a winter filled with speculation, miscommunication, and big statements from Steve Cohen and agent Scott Boras, the Polar Bear is expected back in Queens, ready to continue his prodigious franchise home run pace.

In center field, José Siri gets the nod over Tyrone Taylor, primarily due to his elite defensive capabilities and game-changing speed. Siri’s ability to cover ground and potentially steal bases brings a dynamic element to the Mets' offense and defense.

Bench: Versatility and Potential

• Luis Torrens C
• Starling Marte OF/DH
• Luisangel Acuña IF
• Tyrone Taylor OF

The Mets' bench provides valuable depth and flexibility. Luisangel Acuña, the highly touted prospect, earns a spot as the primary backup infielder. Acuña’s presence offers insurance at second base and allows for late-inning defensive replacements across multiple infield positions.

Starting Rotation: A Six-Man Approach

1. Kodai Senga
2. Sean Manaea
3. Frankie Montas
4. Clay Holmes
5. David Peterson
6. Griffin Canning

The Mets are embracing a six-man rotation, a strategy designed to manage workload and keep their pitching staff fresh throughout the 162-game season. While Paul Blackburn's recovery from last year's injury continues, the Mets will have to take a cautious approach. Given the typical 4-5 month recovery timeline for such injuries, it's likely Blackburn begins the season on the injured list, preventing him from ramping up in time for Opening Day. This opens the door for Griffin Canning to slot into the sixth starter role.

Bullpen: Multiple high-leverage situation arms

• CP Edwin Diaz
• Setup A.J. Minter
• Setup Ryne Stanek
• Middle reliever Reed Garrett
• Middle reliever Dedniel Nuñez
• Middle reliever Danny Young
• Long relief pitcher José Buttó

The Mets' bullpen is anchored by Edwin Diaz, with the newly acquired A.J. Minter and the return of Ryne Stanek filling the crucial setup roles. The question mark in the pen revolves around the final spot. With both Danny Young and Sean Reid-Foley lacking minor-league options, a tough decision looms.

Ultimately, the Mets will opt for Young, banking on the development of his sweeper, a pitch that generated an elite 51% whiff rate last season. This, coupled with the desire to maintain multiple left-handed options in the bullpen, gives Young the edge. Reid-Foley, despite his talent, will likely be placed on waivers. His split contract makes him less likely to be claimed, potentially allowing him to return to the Mets' minor league system.