The Flushing Framework

Kicking off Spring Training this week, New York Mets manager Carlos Mendoza provided key insights into how the team will structure camp and prepare for the 2025 season.

From lineup decisions to defensive versatility, Mendoza touched on several important topics in multiple press conferences, including Francisco Lindor’s continued role as the team’s leadoff hitter, Brett Baty’s expanded defensive responsibilities, and how the pitching staff will be utilized.

Lindor Back at the Top of the Order

One of the biggest takeaways from Mendoza’s comments was the confirmation that Francisco Lindor will again serve as the team’s leadoff hitter in 2025. With his ability to work counts, steal bases, and set the tone for the lineup, keeping him at the top makes a great deal of sense.

"We've got some really good options here"

Carlos Mendoza talks about the Mets' lineup and says that Francisco Lindor will remain the leadoff hitter: pic.twitter.com/LvLJyToaku

— SNY Mets (@SNY_Mets) February 11, 2025

Baty Getting Reps at Both Second and Third Base

Another notable revelation is Brett Baty’s role in spring training. The new No. 7 will see time at both second and third base during games. While third base has been his primary position, this move suggests that the Mets want to test his versatility and keep their lineup flexible with some solid backup options.

With Jeff McNeil’s ability to shift to the outfield when needed, Baty’s potential to handle second base could give Mendoza more options throughout the season.

Carlos Mendoza says that Brett Baty will play third base and second base in spring training games: pic.twitter.com/AL8GQM7hBq

— SNY Mets (@SNY_Mets) February 11, 2025

José Buttó to Work as Multi-Inning Reliever

Right-hander José Buttó will not be in the mix for a starting job in a shift from his previous role. Instead, the Mets plan to use him as a multiple-inning reliever. Buttó has shown flashes of promise, but with the team’s rotation depth, the Mets see him as a weapon out of the bullpen rather than a full-time starter.

His ability to cover multiple innings could be valuable, especially in games where the starter exits early.

Jett Williams to Get Center Field Reps

One of the more intriguing developments from Mendoza’s update is that top prospect Jett Williams will take reps in center field. Williams, primarily a shortstop, has the speed and athleticism to handle the outfield, and the move could accelerate his path to the majors.

With Brandon Nimmo locked in as the primary center fielder and capable of playing a corner spot, the Mets seem interested in exploring ways to add Williams’ dynamic skill set to the big-league roster sooner rather than later.

Ronny Mauricio Won’t Play in Games Until March

The Mets will approach Ronny Mauricio cautiously as he recovers from ACL surgery. Mendoza confirmed that Mauricio won’t play in spring training games until March, giving him extra time to ensure his knee is fully healthy.

Mauricio showed great promise late in the 2023 season before his injury, and the Mets are hoping he can return strong and contribute in 2025.

Carlos Mendoza says that Ronny Mauricio won't play in games until at least mid-March: pic.twitter.com/jvBIV2Atu7

— SNY Mets (@SNY_Mets) February 11, 2025

Hoping for AJ Minter’s Return by Opening Day

The Mets bullpen took a hit when newly signed lefty AJ Minter underwent hip surgery this offseason. While Mendoza didn’t guarantee a timeline, there’s hope that Minter will be ready for Opening Day. The Mets signed the former Braves reliever to bolster the late-inning mix, and getting him back early in the season would be a big boost.

Mets Baseball on the Horizon

Mendoza’s update gives a clearer picture of how the Mets will approach spring training. Lindor remains a fixture at the top of the lineup, Baty is expanding his defensive profile, Buttó is transitioning to a relief role, and Williams is getting a look in center field. Meanwhile, Mauricio’s return will be gradual, and the team remains hopeful that Minter will be available to start the season.

With plenty of moving pieces, spring training will be crucial for the Mets as they finalize their roster and prepare for a competitive 2025 campaign.