After a right forearm contusion sidelined Luis Torrens, an MRI revealed no serious damage, allowing him to begin baseball activities again. Torrens, who suffered the injury during a foul tip in the Mets' home opener, has missed five consecutive games. Meanwhile, rookie Hayden Senger continues to step up, impressing with his defensive skills and contributing offensively with a multi-hit game. With primary catcher Francisco Alvarez recovering from surgery, the Mets are optimistic about Torrens' availability soon.

Paul Blackburn, another injured player, is making progress as he prepares for a return from knee inflammation. He plans to ramp up his pitches in anticipation of a rehab stint. The Mets are focused on their depth as they navigate these challenges. Additionally, the team honored St. John's basketball for their recent successes, showcasing a community spirit amidst the ongoing MLB season.

The New York Mets celebrated their home opener at Citi Field, showcasing a united front despite injuries impacting their roster. Key players like Francisco Alvarez, Jeff McNeil, and Paul Blackburn were present, with Alvarez showing progress post-surgery as he caught a bullpen session. Meanwhile, McNeil works his way back from an oblique strain and has been hitting, though his replacements, Brett Baty and Luisangel Acuña, have struggled at the plate. Blackburn aims for activation soon, while pitchers Sean Manaea and Frankie Montas continue their recovery.

The New York Mets are seeing progress as several players on the injured list begin to recover. Paul Blackburn is set to resume throwing, and Sean Manaea and Jeff McNeil are targeting mid-to-late April for returns, contingent on their rehabilitation progress. Both players have suffered oblique strains, an injury that can easily be aggravated, making the Mets cautious. Francisco Alvarez has also begun baseball activities following surgery on his left hamate bone, which is a positive sign.

In roster changes, Jose Siri has been given the start in center field over Tyrone Taylor, reflecting the team’s confidence in his ability to adjust his hitting technique. Francisco Lindor is awaiting the birth of his third child, with the team prepared for any potential absence during an upcoming series in Florida.

Paul Blackburn made a significant return to the mound during the Mets' first Grapefruit League game, showcasing his recovery after surgery for a cerebrospinal fluid leak. In just seven pitches, Blackburn demonstrated his readiness, retiring the Miami Marlins' lineup effectively. His performance marks a pivotal moment in his rehabilitation, as he focuses on refining his sinker and sweeper, two pitches he has worked hard to adjust. Manager Carlos Mendoza expressed confidence in Blackburn's ability to compete, highlighting his knack for throwing strikes.

Having modified his grip on the sinker and adjusted the sweeper's trajectory, Blackburn aims to differentiate these pitches and enhance their effectiveness. His early camp performances suggest he could take on a crucial role in the Mets' starting rotation, especially with Sean Manaea and Frankie Montas sidelined. As Blackburn puts last season's injuries behind him, he is poised for a promising year ahead.

The New York Mets are focused on building a formidable pitching rotation for the 2025 season, re-signing Sean Manaea and adding Frankie Montas and Clay Holmes to the mix. Manaea had a breakout year in 2024, showcasing a career-best performance, while Montas brings a powerful fastball and swing-and-miss splitter, despite recent struggles and shoulder surgery. Holmes, primarily a reliever, is transitioning to starting, adding depth to the rotation.

Kodai Senga, who dealt with injuries last season, is also a vital piece, with expectations for a strong rebound. Manager Carlos Mendoza is confident in the depth of options available, including former All-Star Paul Blackburn and promising young arms. The Mets are looking to utilize a six-man rotation, ensuring they have sufficient pitching strength for the long season ahead.