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Mets Reassign 11 Players as Opening Day Approaches

3/18/2026

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Center

Mets Reassign Players

On March 17, the New York Mets optioned outfielder MJ Melendez and pitcher Christian Scott to Triple-A Syracuse.
Melendez had a strong spring, but his at-bats were hindered by World Baseball Classic participation.
The Mets reassigned 11 players to minor league camp, including top prospects A.J. Ewing and Ryan Clifford.
With Opening Day approaching on March 26, the right field job between Mike Tauchman and Carson Benge is heating up.

Right

Mets Praise Thornton

The New York Mets highlighted Zach Thornton, a pitcher, who has a 1.35 ERA in two Grapefruit League games.
Manager Carlos Mendoza praised Thornton's competitive spirit and strike-throwing ability.
The Mets reassigned top prospects Ryan Clifford and A.J. Ewing to minor league camp.
Mendoza noted the positive development of young players and their readiness for major league competition.
Marcus Semien is improving and hits his second homer of the spring.

History

Historical Context

In 1962, Major League Baseball expanded by adding the New York Mets and the Houston Colt .45s, increasing the league to 20 teams. This expansion followed the relocation of the Brooklyn Dodgers and New York Giants to California in 1958, prompting New York City to seek a replacement team. The Mets' focus on developing young talent continues a long-standing trend in MLB player development.

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Mets Reassign Players

On March 17, the New York Mets optioned outfielder MJ Melendez and pitcher Christian Scott to Triple-A Syracuse.
Melendez had a strong spring, but his at-bats were hindered by World Baseball Classic participation.
The Mets reassigned 11 players to minor league camp, including top prospects A.J. Ewing and Ryan Clifford.
With Opening Day approaching on March 26, the right field job between Mike Tauchman and Carson Benge is heating up.

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