Austin Barnes Joins Mets, Predicts Big Run

0:00Welcome to New York Mets News Today. Two minutes of updates that matter to New York Mets fans, hit subscribe and stay connected. Former Dodgers catcher Austin Barnes signed a minor league deal with the New York Mets this off season. The 36 year old veteran believes the team has what it takes for a big run in 2026. He's already shining in spring training with a .889 OPS and a 313 batting average. The Mets stumbled hard last year, dropping 12 and a half games in the second half to miss the playoffs. They lost stars like Edwin Diaz and Peter Lanzo to free agency. Still, they kept Juan Soto and Francisco Lendor while adding Devon Williams, Marcus Semyon, and Boba Shet. Barnes calls this a really good group with talent, matching any team in the majors. He says it just needs to click naturally. Fans and analysts are buying in after his strong early camp performance. Fans love promising too. FanGrav sees the Mets winning close to 90 games this season. They even give New York the best shot at the National League East title, around 37% odds.

1:05Barnes spent 11 years with the Dodgers, playing 612 games and winning 2 World Series. Los Angeles released him early in 2025 and he had a short stint with the giants before landing with the Mets, who also grabbed other, ex Dodgers like Craig Kimbrill. This episode is supported by our sponsor. Some travel miles to find peace. I just climb in the bed and listen, S-O-L-I-SoliPillow.com.