For most of the nearly half century of major league free agency, the New York teams have avoided each other on that financial battlefield. They tussled early on Dave Winfield. The Mets lost that one and in much of Wilpon ownership seemed to lack the ferocity for the fight. They might dip in late to … Read more
With spring training in full swing, Jim Bowden answered 20 questions from subscribers on a variety of topics including his take on the Cody Bellinger deal, what he’s hearing about the remaining top free agents, and some early thoughts on the 2024 season. Note: Questions have been edited for clarity and length. This was a … Read more
Noteworthy items during the Mets’ Grapefruit League opener on Saturday in Port St. Lucie: Deep thoughts Congratulations if you had Hayden Senger in the Mets’ first Grapefruit League homer of the spring pool. The catcher cleared the right-field fence in the eighth inning of the Mets’ 10-5 loss to the Cardinals in Port St. Lucie. … Read more
PORT ST. LUCIE, Fla. — After Mark Vientos made a smooth play on a routine grounder during infield practice, Brett Baty took his turn at third base. On a hard-hit ball, Baty ranged toward his left, made a clean pickup, spun around and delivered a perfect throw to first base. With a bat in hand … Read more
Diego Castillo didn’t fit in the Mets’ roster plans, but the Yankees have a spot for him. The 26-year-old infielder/outfielder was claimed off waivers by the Yankees on Friday, after the Mets designated him for assignment to clear space on the 40-man roster for Sean Manaea. Castillo had been claimed off waivers from the Diamondbacks earlier … Read more
The final luxury tax bill for the New York Mets’ failed 2023 season became official this week, according to figures published Saturday by the Associated Press, with billionaire owner Steve Cohen on the hook for a record-high penalty of nearly $101 million. For the privilege of fielding a team that loaded up on star players … Read more
The Mets failed, but not through a lack of effort. They tried, through their actions and their money, to lure Yoshinobu Yamamoto to Queens. Team owner Steve Cohen and president of baseball operations David Stearns flew to Japan before the winter meetings for an in-person sit-down with the pitcher and his family, getting a head … Read more
