Here’s an inside look at some issues facing the Mets as the 2026 season approaches:
Best position battle
The only real unsettled position is left field, where 23-year-old Carson Benge will try to show he’s ready for a major league opportunity. Other options include defensive whiz Tyrone Taylor and Brett Baty, who is learning a new position after he was displaced from third base. Benge, a first-round pick in the 2024 draft, will have to prove he can handle major league pitching. Benge rose from Single-A to Triple-A last season. Baty was solid offensively in last year’s second half after struggling early. Taylor’s offensive ceiling is limited, but he brings an elite glove to the outfield.
Most intriguing minor leaguer
The Mets received a glimpse of Jonah Tong last season, perhaps earlier than anticipated because of a need within the rotation. The right-hander pitched to a 7.71 ERA in five starts, but his stock remains extremely high as he enters his first major league spring training. Even without Tong, the Mets have six starters, so the rookie — barring injuries — will likely begin the season at Triple-A Syracuse. But Tong and Nolan McLean will both be scrutinized heavily this spring as essential building blocks from within.
Story to watch develop
Devin Williams was a stud closer with the Brewers, but struggled following his trade to the Yankees before last season. Now he’s tasked with replacing Edwin Díaz, after the All-Star closer opted out of his contract and accepted a three-year contract worth $69 million with the Dodgers. Williams’ metrics suggest he should have been better than last year’s 4.79 ERA in 67 appearances with the Yankees. The question might be whether he’s capable of handling all that comes with performing under the New York spotlight.
