Mets’ Split Squad Splits the Day: Recap 3/17/2025
Today’s New York Mets’ split-squad action saw a loss to the Tampa Bay Rays at Clover Park (2-0) but a win over the Miami Marlins in Jupiter (6-5). The day provided several standout performances, especially from the pitching staff.
The team continues to fine-tune its roster and build momentum with just ten days ahead of Opening Day.
Canning Continues to Impress
While the Mets fell to Tampa Bay, Griffin Canning delivered another standout spring performance. The right-hander struck out nine batters in 4.2 innings, allowing just three hits, one earned run, and one walk. He faced 17 batters and generated a significant number of whiffs by leaning heavily on his slider and cutter, dialing back on his fastball usage.
Griffin Canning struck out 9 of the 17 batters he faced today 🔥 pic.twitter.com/In6P7O6vKB
— SNY Mets (@SNY_Mets) March 17, 2025
Canning, who has been one of the Mets’ most intriguing offseason acquisitions, has now posted 16 strikeouts in 10 innings this spring, boasting a 0.90 ERA and a 0.80 WHIP.
His time in the Mets’ pitching lab has paid off, and he continues to make a strong case for a rotation spot. A savvy signing by David Stearns, Canning looks like another example of the Mets’ analytical development paying dividends.
Also in Port St. Lucie, Dedniel Núñez made his spring debut, tossing a 1-2-3 inning with one strikeout. His return after missing time due to injury provides another potential depth option for the bullpen.
Jesse Winker Exits Early, But No Injury Concern
Jesse Winker exited the game in the bottom of the third due to calf cramping but reassured reporters postgame that there is no concern for injury. He received treatment as a precautionary measure and emphasized that it was just about “playing it smart.”
“I feel better. I’m not really too concerned about it.”
Jesse Winker says he’s feeling better after getting treatment for his calf: pic.twitter.com/smYAyBrkwc
— SNY (@SNYtv) March 17, 2025
Before his exit, Winker had been seeing time in the outfield, though he is expected to be the Mets’ primary designated hitter this season. This spring, he’s batting to an impressive .286/.412/.393 with a .805 OPS.
Taking his place in today’s game was Ryan Clifford, who was named to the All-Spring Breakout First Team after launching a 449-foot home run in the Mets’ Spring Breakout win over the Nationals on Sunday.
Congrats to @ryanclifford21 on being named to the @MLBPipeline All-Spring Breakout First Team! đź‘Ź pic.twitter.com/LIiKppi7Ab
— Mets Player Development (@MetsPlayerDev) March 17, 2025
Brandon Nimmo Feeling Stronger
Brandon Nimmo made his second straight start in the outfield after receiving a knee injection recently. He noted that he has recovered about 90% from the plantar fasciitis and knee issues that lingered last season but remains optimistic about being ready for Opening Day.
Mets Top Marlins in Jupiter
At Roger Dean Chevrolet Stadium, the Mets came away with a 6-5 victory over Miami. Paul Blackburn (AKA “Pauly B Nasty”) put together a 4.0-inning, six-strikeout performance, giving up two runs but feeling strong overall.
Canario with the oppo taco 🌮 pic.twitter.com/U4zlZeg3W9
— New York Mets (@Mets) March 17, 2025
On the offensive side:
- Pete Alonso got the Mets on the board early with a sacrifice fly in the first inning, bringing home Starling Marte.
- Nick Roselli delivered in the eighth, ripping an RBI double to right field.
- William Lugo and Tyrone Taylor followed with RBI singles to extend the lead.
- Luisangel Acuña, continuing his push for an everyday role, notched two hits in three at-bats.
- Alexander Canario delivered a go-ahead (2-run) home run in the top of the ninth.
Mets’ Depth Taking Shape as Season Approaches
With just over a week before the regular season, the Mets are finding their rhythm. Despite a few injuries, they’ve demonstrated substantial pitching depth, with rotation pieces like Canning and Blackburn stepping up while the bullpen continues to sort itself out.
See Also: Mets name Clay Holmes as Opening Day starter
Offensively, key contributors like Juan Soto, Jesse Winker, Mark Vientos, and Brett Baty are settling into (what looks like) midseason form, swinging heavy bats and demonstrating to be consistent on-base assets.
Meanwhile, young talents such as Ryan Clifford are making names for themselves, adding even more depth to an already potent Mets lineup.
The locked-in team balances reps for its regular starters while ensuring younger players have opportunities to fine-tune their approach before Opening Day.
