On this episode of Meet at the Apple, Mets manager Carlos Mendoza joins hosts Vito Calise and Jonathan Baron from Citi Field for a deep-dive conversation on the 2025 New York Mets. The trio reflects on the electric atmosphere of Opening Day, the emergence of key players like Pete Alonso and Luis Torrens, the strategy behind plate discipline, and the crucial role of the bullpen.

Mendoza also shares insight into:

• How the Mets are building a new clubhouse identity


• The value of having elite on-base threats like Juan Soto in the lineup


• The maturity of Tylor Megill and what’s driving his Opening Day dominance

Plus, get updates on Jeff McNeil and Ronny Mauricio, working relationship with Desi Druschel and Jeremy Hefner, and enjoy Mendoza’s thoughts on Jesse Winker’s unexpected triple and the late-inning magic that’s already thrilling Mets fans this season.

Whether you’re a die-hard Mets fan or just love baseball strategy, this 18-minute conversation is packed with insights from the skipper himself.

Timestamps:

00:00 – Welcome back to Citi Field with Carlos Mendoza

00:35 – Reflecting Opening Day and the home crowd energy

01:22 – Early season clubhouse vibes and team personality

02:05 – Emphasis on plate discipline and team-wide approach

03:31 – Luis Torrens: Defensive anchor and clutch contributor

04:52 – Pete Alonso's hot start, fan reaction, and leadership

06:03 – Is Juan Soto the key to Pete Alonso’s protection?

07:15 – The Citi Field crowd advantage and playoff-like intensity

08:01 – Dominant bullpen mentality and depth

10:55 – Pitching development: Desi Druschel & Jeremy Hefner dynamic

12:06 – Hitting bullpens late: Mets’ late-inning magic

13:26 – Injury updates: Jeff McNeil & Ronny Mauricio

14:12 – Jesse Winker’s hustle triple and underrated speed

15:26 – Trusted lefty bats vs. southpaws: Nimmo, Soto, Winker

16:23 – “Primetime” Tylor Megill and Opening Day

17:39 – Outro: Follow the show & see Carlos Mendoza at Citi Field

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