Mets' Francisco Alvarez Reveals Offseason Changes After 2025 Demotion

The young catcher is looking to bounce back in 2026 after a challenging 2025 season.

Published on Feb. 13, 2026

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Francisco Alvarez, the New York Mets' top prospect, went through some ups and downs in 2025, including a demotion to Triple-A Syracuse. However, Alvarez has made significant changes this offseason, including losing 8-10 pounds by focusing on his nutrition. He also worked on his mechanics with the team's hitting director and plans to maintain a playing weight between 225-235 pounds, down from 245 last year. Alvarez is determined to have a big 2026 season and is focused on being consistent with his routine.

Why it matters

Alvarez is a key part of the Mets' future, and his development will be crucial to the team's success. After a difficult 2025 campaign, his offseason adjustments show his dedication to improving and regaining his form as one of the top young talents in baseball.

The details

Alvarez was demoted to Triple-A Syracuse last June after struggling offensively, likely due to the lingering effects of injuries he suffered in 2024. This offseason, he has worked to improve his nutrition and mechanics, shedding 8-10 pounds to play at a more optimal weight. Alvarez plans to maintain a playing weight between 225-235 pounds, down from 245 last season. He also worked closely with the Mets' hitting director, Jeff Albert, to refine his approach at the plate.

  • Alvarez was demoted to Triple-A Syracuse last June.
  • Alvarez made significant offseason changes to his nutrition and mechanics.

The players

Francisco Alvarez

The New York Mets' top prospect, a young catcher who struggled with injuries and performance in 2025 before being demoted to Triple-A.

Jeff Albert

The Mets' director of hitting, who worked closely with Alvarez on his mechanics and approach at the plate this offseason.

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What they’re saying

“Francisco Alvarez has lost about eight or 10 pounds by focusing on his nutrition, he said. He worked with director of hitting Jeff Albert in the offseason and will be keeping the batting stance he re-adopted after returning from his demotion to Triple-A last year.”

— Laura Albanese, Reporter (Newsday)

“Every year, we come in with the same expectations: 'It's going to be our year, it's going to be my year.' For me, it's just being consistent with my routine, being consistent with me, being consistent with everything. And go play baseball.”

— Francisco Alvarez (MLB.com)

What’s next

Alvarez will look to carry his offseason improvements into a strong performance in spring training, where he will aim to secure a spot on the Mets' Opening Day roster.

The takeaway

Alvarez's offseason dedication to improving his nutrition, mechanics, and overall approach shows his commitment to bouncing back from a challenging 2025 season. If he can translate these changes into on-field success, he could be a key contributor to the Mets' playoff push in 2026.