Brandon Nimmo stands out as a sleeper pick for fantasy baseball enthusiasts following a lackluster 2022. Despite a batting average of .224, he demonstrated significant power with 23 homers and 15 stolen bases, benefiting from rule changes that enhanced base running. His batting position, behind Juan Soto and Pete Alonso, promises strong RBI potential if he returns to his typical form of hitting around .275-.280.

Josh Lowe remains another intriguing sleeper after a challenging year marred by an oblique injury. However, given his previous season's success, where he achieved a .292 average with 32 steals, he could bounce back as a top performer in a favorable ballpark setting.

Lawrence Butler is highlighted as a breakout candidate, showing improved performance post-minor league adjustments. Should his strikeout rate stabilize, he might transition into an impactful player, justifying a mid-round pick. Conversely, Brenton Doyle presents bust potential due to high strikeout numbers and disappointing road performance, raising concerns over his consistency.

The discourse surrounding the New York Mets' lineup has sparked intriguing discussions as fans and analysts speculate on the optimal arrangement. With Francisco Lindor's impressive performance likely securing him the leadoff spot, the position of Pete Alonso and Mark Vientos in the subsequent slots has become a focal point of debate. The flexibility of the lineup allows for exciting combinations, balancing power and on-base capabilities.

Notably, the potential for Brandon Nimmo to either drive in runs or set the table is crucial. Fans are curious about which version of Nimmo will show up this season: the home-run hitter or the patient, on-base machine. The anticipation surrounding Francisco Alvarez's breakout performance adds another layer to the lineup's depth, hinting at the possibility of generating two distinct lineups within the same batting order. Ultimately, the Mets enter the season with one of their most potent lineups in years, creating a buzz of excitement among the fanbase.

The latest episode of the Rico Bronia podcast dives deep into the controversial future of Pete Alonso with the New York Mets. Host Evan Roberts reflects on the mixed feelings among fans regarding Alonso's potential return, with many expressing disappointment in the team's pivot to internal options. The discussions stem from comments made by owner Steve Cohen and president David Stearns during a recent event, which sparked reactions from the fanbase. Some listeners voiced concerns that relying on younger players like Brett Baty and Ronnie Mauricio might not suffice in filling Alonso's shoes.

Listeners also expressed mixed sentiments about the Mets' openness regarding Alonso's contract situation. One email highlighted concerns about the relationship between Cohen and agent Scott Boras potentially deteriorating, while others discussed the impact of recent contract negotiations on Alonso's psyche. Fans shared their experiences from a recent event where they booed the potential backup plan for Alonso, indicating a desire for a more aggressive approach to acquiring talent.

The ongoing negotiations surrounding Pete Alonso's return to the New York Mets continue to evoke strong opinions. Steve Cohen, the Mets' owner, expressed frustration with the current contract discussions, indicating that both he and team personnel want Alonso back but are unwilling to overpay. Despite the tension, the likelihood of Alonso returning hinges on whether he receives a better offer elsewhere, which seems uncertain at this time. The Mets maintain that they have already presented competitive proposals.

As the Mets look ahead, the potential starting lineup appears to be taking shape, with names like Francisco Lindor and Brandon Nimmo expected to play key roles. The team may look for additional offensive stability from players such as Mark Vientos and Francisco Alvarez, who has shown promise. Even though the lineup currently lacks depth without Alonso, there are options that could improve the situation as the season progresses.

In a thrilling contest, the New York Mets faced off against the Pittsburgh Pirates, showcasing multiple home runs and pivotal plays. Brandon Nimmo made a significant impact, hitting his 17th home run, tying his career high, and giving the Mets an early lead. However, the Pirates responded robustly, with Liover Peguero tying the game with his fifth home run of the season, demonstrating his unexpected power at the plate.

The seventh inning proved decisive, as Jason Delay, the Pirates' ninth hitter, delivered a two-run double, pushing Pittsburgh ahead decisively. Despite DJ Stewart's impressive performance with a pinch-hit two-run homer, the Mets struggled to close the gap. The game concluded with the Pirates securing a solid win, further showcasing their competitive edge.