Mets Win 6-4: Soto HR in first AB and perfection from Holmes

clay holmes , Mets , New York Mets , NYM , Port St. Lucie , SotoSzn , Spring Training

Mets Secure 6-4 Win Over Astros in Spring Training Opener

PORT ST. LUCIE, FL—In a game that combined stellar individual performances with pivotal technological interventions, the New York Mets emerged victorious with a 6-4 win over the Houston Astros in their highly anticipated spring training season opener.

Soto’s Debut Home Run Stuns the Crowd

Adding to the day’s excitement, Juan Soto made an unforgettable entrance into the Mets’ lineup. In his first at-bat as a New York Met, Soto launched a towering 426-foot home run that electrified Clover Park.

YES HE DID!!!! pic.twitter.com/0mgPtJPJk1

— Gab (@gabrauc) February 22, 2025

The prodigious hit not only demonstrated Soto’s remarkable power and precision but also signaled his immediate impact on the team’s offense. His debut blast has quickly become one of the defining moments of the opener, setting high expectations for his contributions throughout the season.

Perfection from Holmes on the Mound

The day belonged to Clay Holmes, who made a significant impression in his starting debut for the Mets. Holmes introduced his new distinctive kick-change pitch—a move that not only caught Astros batters off guard but also set the tone for the game.

Clay Holmes, Sinker/Kick Change Overlay. pic.twitter.com/7mzzU44EsV

— Rob Friedman (@PitchingNinja) February 22, 2025

Displaying exceptional command and control, Holmes delivered three perfect innings, showcasing his potential as a key starting asset for the Mets this season. His transition back to a starting role with an adjusted arsenal and ability to maintain composure under pressure was evident as he navigated through the Astros’ lineup, leaving little room for no error on the mound as he put up three perfect innings.

Technological Advancements Impact the Game

The game also featured a notable moment involving the latest advancements in baseball technology. A critical strike-three call on Pete Alonso was overturned following a review by the new ABS challenge system.

Pete Alonso successfully challenged a called strike three on a ball just out of the zone pic.twitter.com/nIaCrv96UV

— SNY (@SNYtv) February 22, 2025

This decision underscored the league’s commitment to accuracy and fairness, ensuring that technological innovation plays a central role in maintaining the integrity of the game.

However, it will not be used in the regular season.

A Promising Start to the Season

Overall, the 6-4 victory highlights the Mets’ competitive drive following a busy offseason but also serves as a harbinger of the season ahead. With standout performances from both Holmes and Soto and technology providing an additional layer of precision in officiating, the Mets appear well-prepared for this upcoming season.

This opener has set a promising tone, leaving fans eager for more action as the team continues to build on its strengths and adapt to the evolving landscape of modern baseball.

Upcoming Games:

New York Mets @ Washington Nationals
- Sunday, February 23rd | 1:05 pm | SS
  - Cacti Park of the Palm Beaches, West Palm Beach, FL
Miami Marlins @ New York Mets
- Sunday, February 23rd | 1:10 pm | SS
  - Clover Park, Port St. Lucie, FL*

About the Author

Gabrielle Raucci

Lead Writer, New York Mets

Gabrielle is the New York Mets Lead Writer at ONNJ Sports, serving as your primary source for all coverage from Flushing, Queens—delivered with a touch of satirical humor.

A native of the Hudson Valley, she studied Business and Marketing at Marist College. With her experience in Minor League Baseball promotions, Gabrielle offers an insightful—often sarcastic—and entertaining perspective on Mets baseball as a lifelong fan.

From half-baked hot takes to bad puns, Gabrielle is committed to providing the finest commentary, fueled by her deep love for the game of baseball.