Biggest Questions for the Mets and Yankees Heading into the Season
Spring training is underway and the 2024 MLB season-opener is nearly upon us. In this one let’s look at the two teams hailing from New York City and what the biggest questions surrounding these teams are heading into the season.
New York Yankees
- Can this team stay healthy?
The New York Yankees undoubtedly have one of the most-talented rosters in the MLB, there is no question about that. The main question going into the season will be if they can stay healthy or not. That has plagued them these past handful of seasons with sluggers Aaron Judge and Giancarlo Stanton missing significant periods of time.
- Will the Yankees make another free agency splash?
There have been plenty of rumors of the Yankees acquiring another big player this offseason. After getting Juan Soto this offseason the Yankees may also have their eye on another big time player but one who will throw off the bump. Blake Snell somehow is still a free agent and has been heavily rumored to come to the Yankees. It’s also said that the Yankees may go after pitcher Dylan Cease.
- Can the young players make an impact?
The Yankees have tons of veterans who are at the top of their game but some young players will have to play big roles if this team wants to compete for a World Series. Last season the 22-year-old Anthony Volpe played 157 games for them but hit just .209 with 60 RBIs. He has power but will need to play better along with Spencer Jones who is their top prospect in the outfield who may be a key player.
New York Mets
- Can they get back to their 2022 form?
In 2022 the New York Mets won 101 games but lost in the NL Wildcard. That team had promise but came out extremely flat last season. To get back to the playoffs this team will have to have to hit for a much higher average. Pete Alonso knocked in 46 home runs and Francisco Lindor had 31 but they both had one of their worst seasons hitting for average.
- Is this team set up to lose?
This winter the Mets really didn’t make any big moves. Unless their current roster can somehow completely turn it around, this team may be in for another rough season. They don’t seem any better on paper but you never know what another year of cohesion between this group may do.
- Who can take this team over the edge?
When talking about getting back into playoff contention, you have to think that someone will step up in a big way if that happens. Last season Francisco Alvarez was great but he, Lindor, and Alonso will need help. Brett Baty is a good candidate who doesn’t even have a sure starting spot at third base but showed promise last season.
By Jack Stradley, I’m a sports writer always looking for a gripping story and a hot take.