Game Preview: Mets vs. Twins Series Opener

Game Preview: Mets vs. Twins Series Opener

The Mets (9-5, 1st in NL East) begin a three-game road series against the Minnesota Twins (4-11, 5th in AL Central) tonight at Target Field. New York enters with momentum after securing a series split against the Athletics, while the Twins aim to rebound from a sluggish start .

Probable Pitchers

- Mets: RHP Clay Holmes (1-1, 4.30 ERA) will start, transitioning back to a rotation role after primarily working as a reliever earlier in his career. Manager Carlos Mendoza praised Holmes’ adaptability, citing his analytical approach and elite fastball-sinker combo .

- Twins: RHP Joe Ryan (1-1, 2.65 ERA) takes the mound, presenting a challenge with his strong early-season form. Ryan’s ability to limit hard contact (.217 opponent AVG) could test a Mets lineup reliant on power .

Key Matchup to Watch

- Pete Alonso (.240 AVG, 1.164 OPS in 2025) faces a Twins bullpen that has struggled (4.47 RA/G). However, Alonso went hitless in his last outing, highlighting the need for supporting bats like Juan Soto (1 HR in 14 games) and Francisco Lindor (.569 OPS in last 28 days) to step up .

Injury Updates

1. Jose Siri (CF): Siri exited Saturday’s game after fouling a ball off his left shin. X-rays were negative, but he remains on crutches and is a candidate for the 10-day IL. Tyrone Taylor is expected to fill in defensively .

2. Long-Term Absences: Key players like Jeff McNeil (oblique), Francisco Alvarez (wrist), and Sean Manaea (oblique) remain sidelined. Mendoza emphasized the team’s depth, citing Brett Baty and Luisangel Acuña as contributors .

Team Performance Spotlight

Pitching Strength Mets starters boast a 2.47 ERA (MLB-best), led by Kodai Senga (1.80 ERA) and David Peterson (2.06 ERA). Holmes’ ability to eat innings will be critical amid a taxed bullpen .

- Offensive Concerns: While Alonso and Brandon Nimmo (4 HRs) provide power, the lineup is hitting .208 collectively, with the bottom third (.647 OPS) struggling to produce .

Manager’s Corner

Carlos Mendoza addressed the team’s resilience:

- On Injuries: “We’re getting tested early, but this is an opportunity for others to shine. Our depth will carry us until our stars return” .

- On Soto’s Slow Start:** “Juan’s process is sound. His Gold Glove-caliber defense and disciplined at-bats will translate to results” .

Series Outlook

The Mets’ road-heavy April schedule continues with two more games in Minnesota. A strong showing could solidify their division lead, while the Twins seek to exploit New York’s offensive inconsistencies.