Two of the most notable pitching figures in Mets history have been observing with interest as the team transitions to its next generation of talent in Flushing.
Pedro Martinez and Johan Santana returned to Citi Field for Saturday’s alumni game. They shared their thoughts on the Mets’ reliance on rookies Nolan McLean, Jonan, and Brandon Sproat during September’s rotation.
“I think the Mets have a bright future ahead,” Martinez remarked on the field before the event. “I really hope they keep up the good drafting and continue to explore international options.”
He added, “It’s wonderful for these young players. It’s happening faster than we thought, but that’s going to help them develop toughness.”
The first Hall of Famer to pitch for the Mets between 2005 and 2008, with 32 of his 219 wins, reflected on how the current trio of rookie starters reminded him of the 2015 season when he reached the World Series alongside Matt Harvey and rookie Noah Syndergaard, plus Jacob deGrom and Stephen Matz.
Santana, who is a two-time Cy Young Award winner and threw the Mets’ only no-hitter in 2012, echoed those sentiments. “They possess impressive skills. Their future looks promising,” he said. “It’s just a question of when they’ll be fully integrated into more gameplay, but their talent is evident.”
Ton had a tough outing against DeGrom and the Rangers during the series opener on Friday, allowing six runs in the first inning.
On Saturday, Sproat impressed, pitching six innings without a walk, although the Mets ultimately lost to the Rangers 3-2.
McLean is slated to get another opportunity on Sunday.
“You need a creative vision. Right now, the Mets are fostering a great environment for all players, and I hope that continues,” Martinez concluded. “I’d love to see more home-grown talent joining the ranks, like deGrom and David Wright.”
