Mets' Alvarez Returns, Lineup Revamped

0:00From the Daily News Now Network, this is New York Metz News Today. Subscribe to keep up with every headline, every game. Metz Catcher Francisco Alvarez has been sidelined by back stiffness during spring training. He's been hitting 364 with one home run so far. The team counts on him for big production this season. Manager Carlos Mendoza gave a positive update Friday morning. Alvarez got treatment and felt much better, moving around without issues. The plan has him working out, taking swings, and returning to the lineup Saturday if all goes well. Last year in the 2025 season, Alvarez hit 11 home runs and drove in 32 runs. The Metz missed the playoffs after a late stumble, despite reaching the National League Championship series the year before. This off-season shook things up when slugger Pita Lanzo left as a free agent for the Baltimore Orioles. New York countered with key trades, including outfielder Louis Robert Jr. from the Chicago White Sox and shortstop Boba Schett.

1:00Fans are buzzing about the revamped lineup as the Metz opened the season March 26 against the Pittsburgh Pirates.