Mets' Freddy Peralta Brings Positive Vibes to Spring Training

Peralta's upbeat attitude and strong pitching performances have the Mets feeling optimistic about their rotation.

Published on Mar. 8, 2026

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Mets pitcher Freddy Peralta has been bringing a positive energy to the team's spring training camp, winning a clubhouse basketball game and maintaining an upbeat attitude even on days when he's pitching. Peralta had a solid outing against the Yankees, adjusting his game plan after the first inning to find more success. Meanwhile, other Mets players like Juan Soto and Clay Holmes have also had strong performances in the World Baseball Classic.

Why it matters

Peralta's infectious personality and strong pitching have been a welcome addition to the Mets' clubhouse, as the team looks to build momentum heading into the regular season. The Mets are hoping Peralta's positive influence and on-field production can help solidify their starting rotation.

The details

Peralta gave up two earned runs in the first inning against the Yankees, but he and catcher Francisco Alvarez adjusted their game plan, leading to four strikeouts and more ground balls over the next two innings. Manager Carlos Mendoza praised Peralta's ability to "mess with hitters' timing" and effectively mix his curveball and changeup. Meanwhile, Mets outfielder Juan Soto hit a walk-off home run for the Dominican Republic in the World Baseball Classic, and reliever Clay Holmes struck out six over three innings for Team USA.

  • Peralta won a clubhouse basketball game prior to his Sunday start.
  • Peralta gave up two earned runs in the first inning against the Yankees on Sunday.
  • Peralta and Alvarez adjusted their game plan after the first inning, leading to a stronger performance.
  • Soto hit a walk-off home run for the Dominican Republic in the World Baseball Classic.
  • Holmes struck out six over three innings for Team USA in the World Baseball Classic.

The players

Freddy Peralta

A 30-year-old right-handed pitcher for the New York Mets, known for his upbeat personality and strong pitching performances.

Juan Soto

An outfielder for the New York Mets who hit a walk-off home run for the Dominican Republic in the World Baseball Classic.

Clay Holmes

A relief pitcher for the United States team in the World Baseball Classic, who struck out six batters over three innings.

Francisco Alvarez

The Mets' catcher who worked with Peralta to adjust their game plan during the outing against the Yankees.

Carlos Mendoza

The manager of the New York Mets, who praised Peralta's ability to "mess with hitters' timing" during his start.

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What they’re saying

“That's how I've done it my whole career. I'm just myself every day, it [doesn't] matter if I'm pitching or not pitching.”

— Freddy Peralta, Mets Pitcher (nydailynews.com)

“They made him work. It was good to see him try to mess with hitters' timing with some of the quick-pitches he was doing, and some of the drop-steps. The curveball was good and there were a couple of changeups that worked for him.”

— Carlos Mendoza, Mets Manager (nydailynews.com)

The takeaway

Freddy Peralta's positive attitude and strong pitching performances have been a welcome addition to the Mets' spring training camp, as the team looks to build momentum and solidify their starting rotation heading into the regular season.