Spring training has highlighted injury recovery for the New York Mets, particularly concerning their high-profile players. Brandon Nimmo, who recently faced knee soreness, expressed confidence after an MRI confirmed only inflammation, allowing him to resume live at-bats ahead of a potential return against the Washington Nationals. Meanwhile, A.J. Minter, the new lefty reliever recovering from hip surgery, is showing positive signs as he prepares for his Grapefruit League debut.

Nimmo, entering the third year of his lucrative contract, had a challenging 2023 season, plagued by injuries that hindered his performance in the latter half. He remains optimistic about overcoming foot issues and may initially play as a designated hitter. Minter's return is also crucial for the Mets' bullpen, as he looks to regain form after a season-ending injury.

A.J. Minter is progressing well in his recovery from hip surgery, indicating he is ahead of schedule for Opening Day. During a recent bullpen session, he expressed satisfaction with his performance, having thrown strikes but wishing for more swings from hitters. Minter aims to be cautious, learning from past experiences where he rushed back to play. He recognizes the importance of proper mechanics and timing as he prepares for competitive action. Minter has also sought advice from teammate David Peterson, who underwent similar hip surgery and returned successfully.

In other Mets news, Blade Tidwell celebrated an impressive immaculate inning in the minors, while Kodai Senga is set to make his first Grapefruit League start. Also, Luisangel Acuña is recovering from a minor elbow injury but remains focused on enhancing his defensive skills.

A.J. Minter is making positive strides in his recovery, throwing live bullpen sessions as he aims for a return by Opening Day. The Mets' left-handed reliever is focusing on syncing his mechanics following surgery on his left hip. Minter, who signed a two-year, $22 million deal with the Mets, understands the importance of pacing himself to avoid past mistakes of rushing back and risking further injury.

His outlook is optimistic, feeling good physically, but he emphasizes the need to trust his body completely before stepping back into competitive action. Minter is also seeking advice from teammate David Peterson, who successfully navigated a similar recovery. The team is being cautious, prioritizing long-term health over immediate returns.

The New York Mets have officially signed right-hander Ryne Stanek to a one-year contract, enhancing their bullpen depth. Acquired in a trade with Seattle last season for minor league outfielder Rhylan Thomas, Stanek had a mixed performance with a 6.06 ERA over 17 regular-season appearances. However, he proved his worth in the postseason, allowing just three runs in eight innings while striking out eight batters. Mets president David Stearns commented on Stanek's importance, highlighting his late-inning reliability and experience, which complements the bullpen featuring closer Edwin Diaz and lefty A.J. Minter. To accommodate Stanek, the Mets designated Dylan Covey for assignment, who hadn't played in a big league game since 2023.

The New York Mets have solidified their bullpen by re-signing right-hander Ryne Stanek to a one-year deal worth $4.5 million, which includes up to $500,000 in incentives. Stanek, who was acquired from the Seattle Mariners last July, had a challenging regular season with a 6.06 ERA, but excelled in the playoffs with a 3.38 ERA and eight strikeouts over eight innings.

Alongside Stanek, the Mets recently added left-handed reliever A.J. Minter, who boasts a career 3.28 ERA and was part of the Atlanta Braves' 2021 World Series-winning team. Both Stanek and Minter are expected to be crucial links to All-Star closer Edwin Díaz, who recently returned from a knee surgery.