As spring training begins, the 2024 Major League Baseball (MLB) season is shaping up to be an exciting season, with two important stories emerging from the league, the remarkable recovery and promising outlook of two-way superstar Shohei Ohtani of the Los Angeles Dodgers. For the New York Mets under new leadership. Spring training is in full swing, and as the new season approaches, baseball fans have a lot to be excited about.
Shohei Ohtani’s Recovery
Two-way superstar Shohei Ohtani of the Los Angeles Dodgers is optimistic about his recovery after a successful batting practice session. Having undergone surgery in September to repair a UCL tear in his right elbow, Ohtani is working diligently to return in time for the Dodgers’ season opener in South Korea on March 20 against the San Diego Padres.
Ohtani, who recently signed a record-breaking 10-year, $700 million contract with the Dodgers, participated in his first on-field batting practice since the surgery, hitting 10 home runs in 21 pitches during the session. This performance has left Ohtani feeling optimistic about his chances of playing on Opening Day.
Despite not being able to pitch this season, Ohtani’s impact as a hitter is undeniable. A two-time MVP, Ohtani has a career .274 batting average with 171 home runs and 437 RBIs. His presence in the Dodgers’ lineup will be crucial as they aim for a successful 2024 campaign.
New York Mets’ Outlook:
The New York Mets, under new president of baseball operations David Stearns, are working towards building a competitive team for the 2024 season. With a focus on developing young talent and adding key veterans, the Mets are poised for an exciting season.
One of the critical storylines for the Mets is the future of star first baseman Pete Alonso. Alonso, who is entering his final year of club control, is working with super-agent Scott Boras, making a long-term deal before free agency unlikely. Stearns has acknowledged this reality and is focused on having a successful season together, with the hope that both the organization and Alonso will be in a strong position going into the offseason.
Alonso, a three-time All-Star, set a rookie home run record with 53 in 2019 and has since hit 118 and 104 homers in the following two seasons, respectively. With a career .263 batting average and 273 home runs, Alonso’s potential as a free agent after the 2024 season has Mets fans and the organization eagerly awaiting his performance this year.
The Mets’ roster has undergone several changes during the offseason, with new additions and departures shaping the team’s outlook. Among the notable acquisitions are center fielder Harrison Bader, right-handers Luis Severino, Jorge López, Michael Tonkin, and Austin Adams, infielder Joey Wendle, right-hander Adrian Houser, and outfielder Tyrone Taylor. These additions bring valuable experience, talent, and depth to the Mets’ roster.
Additionally, the Mets traded for right-hander Yohan Ramirez from the Chicago White Sox and are expected to finalize a deal with right-hander Shintaro Fujinami, adding further pitching depth to the team.
The Mets’ roster also features several players with options, providing the team with the flexibility to manage workloads and make strategic decisions throughout the season. This includes All-Star closer Edwin Díaz, who is expected to return after tearing his patellar tendon during the 2023 World Baseball Classic.
Mets management, led by David Stearns, is confident in the team’s ability to compete for a playoff spot this year. With a talented roster and a strong organizational philosophy, the Mets are set to make a push for the postseason in 2024.
In summary, the 2024 MLB season promises to be an exciting one, with Shohei Ohtani’s recovery and the New York Mets’ roster improvements at the forefront. Ohtani’s potential return for the Dodgers’ Opening Day and the Mets’ drive to reach the playoffs will undoubtedly make for captivating storylines as the season unfolds.
