Francisco Alvarez will reclaim what’s his upon Mets return

Luis Torrens may be the best ever $100K pickup and he’s earned extra playing time. But expect Francisco Alvarez to regain the starting job upon his return. 

No way should the Mets send Luisangel Acuña down, as Carlos Mendoza is finding him playing time (and should still, even with Jeff McNeil back). 

Mets catcher Luis Torrens (13) hits a single in the 9th inning against the Philadelphia Phillies at Citi Field, Wednesday, April 23, 2025, in Queens, NY. Corey Sipkin for the NY POST

The superb start for Mets pitchers is a testament to 1) pitching coach Jeremy Hefner 2) their pitching lab and 3) their pitching strategy/choices. (Although they will admit their MLB-leading 2.34 ERA is a bit fortunate; all five starters have a higher expected ERA than actual ERA, via MLB Network). 

If they can turn average pitchers into good or better pitchers, it makes sense to use the big dough on offense.