Key Highlights
- Juan Soto addresses clubhouse tension reports with Francisco Lindor.
- Juan Soto discusses his relationship with Pete Alonso and the team’s decision-making process.
- Nolan McLean talks about nicknames, pitch grips, and performance in interviews.
- University of Arizona pitching coach John DeRouin joins Mets organization as a pitching coordinator.
- Merrill Kelly signs two-year, $40 million deal with the Dodgers.
Morning Briefing: Soto Squashes Reports of Rift With Lindor
Good morning, Mets fans! In a recent interview with El Padi TV, Juan Soto addressed several questions that have been circulating about his relationship with Francisco Lindor. Soto, in Spanish, confirmed that he and Lindor maintain a good working relationship within the clubhouse.
Soto’s Assurance on Clubhouse Harmony
When asked about any tension between him and Lindor, Soto stated, “Good, I get along very well with Lindor, you know. He’s a great ballplayer and a tremendous person, and a happy person in the clubhouse amongst everything else.” This statement comes after reports of potential rifts within the team.
Alonso’s Departure and Team Communication
Soto also discussed how he found out about Pete Alonso leaving for Baltimore. “Before the news came out, we already knew what was going to happen, like I said, I always keep in contact with the team.” He further elaborated on his relationship with Alonso, saying, “We got along well. Pete is a tremendous player, tremendous person, a person that cares about his team and wants the best for his team.” This insight provides a glimpse into the dynamics within the Mets organization.
Nolan McLean’s Insights
Meanwhile, Nolan McLean did a 56-minute interview with “pitching ninja” Rob Friedman. In this session, McLean talked about his nickname and pitch grips. He revealed that Tyrone Taylor is a big in-game supporter. McLean mentioned that his nickname “Lightning McLean” has been on the rise, while he likes the suggestion of “Nasty Nolan.” These insights offer fans a deeper understanding of the pitcher’s mindset and approach.
New Hires and Coaching Changes
The Mets have made another move to strengthen their pitching staff. University of Arizona pitching coach John DeRouin is joining the organization as a pitching coordinator, according to Michael Lev of the Arizona Daily Star. DeRouin, 25, is “considered a rising star in the industry with his ability to use technological tools to teach pitch shapes and improve pitchers’ performance.” This addition could be crucial for McLean’s development and overall team strategy.
Free Agent Moves
In other news, Merrill Kelly is returning to Arizona on a two-year, $40 million deal. This move by the Dodgers brings back an experienced pitcher who was previously traded from the Diamondbacks at the trade deadline. Additionally, Dodgers pitcher Tyler Glasnow denied being traded despite rumors involving Andrew Friedman and Tarik Skubal.
Legal Proceedings
Closing arguments are set to begin Monday in the wrongful death civil trial brought by the family of pitcher Tyler Skaggs against the Angels. Testimony has been ongoing for over two months, highlighting the ongoing impact of this tragic event on professional baseball.
On This Date in Mets History
1990: The Mets traded Bob Ojeda and Greg Hansell to the Dodgers for Hubie Brooks. 2002: Edgardo Alfonzo signed with the Giants as a free agent, while Rey Ordóñez was traded to Tampa Bay for Russ Johnson and Josh Pressley.
Johneshwy Fargas (1994), Trevor Hildenberger (1990), Scott Copeland (1987), Mo Vaughn (1967), Art Howe (1946) were all born on this date.
The Mets continue to make strategic moves and face ongoing legal challenges. Stay tuned for more updates as the season progresses.
