The Mets and Yankees Defying Expectations in these Opening Weeks

Adrianna McKinney '26

The Yankees and Mets’ early 2025 seasons have surprised fans across New York with excitement. Both state rivals are thriving in the early part of the season. The MLB season typically begins in late March or early April and runs into the fall. So far, the Mets hold a record of 18 wins and 7 losses, while the Yankees are at 15 wins and 10 losses.

Specifically, the Mets appeared to be in trouble at the start of the 2025 season. Surprisingly, most of their wins have come from strong pitching. Despite injuries to Paul Blackburn, Frankie Montas, and Sean Manaea—none of whom have pitched this season—the Mets have maintained an ERA of 2.91 and a FIP of 2.71. That ERA was lowered to 2.47 thanks to scoreless innings from Huascar Brazoban, A.J. Minter, Ryne Stanek, and Jose Butto. After a game against the Phillies featuring Griffin Canning, the ERA dropped further to 2.37. Without the injuries, Canning likely wouldn’t have pitched, and Tylor Megill might not have started either.

On the offensive side, Pete Alonso and Francisco Lindor have also contributed significantly. Alonso is batting .444, and Lindor holds a .301 average. Although many fans expected the Mets to struggle this year, they’ve exceeded expectations.

Similarly, Yankees fans were also bracing for a rough season. In fact, the Yankees set a modern MLB record by hitting 15 home runs in just three games. While the Mets’ success has come largely from pitching, the Yankees have relied on powerful hitting. Key players this season include Aaron Judge, Paul Goldschmidt, and Carlos Rodón. Judge is currently batting .415, and Goldschmidt has a .383 average. Rodón has been the standout pitcher so far, with an ERA of 3.97.

With the Mets at 18–7 and the Yankees at 15–10, fans of both teams have been pleasantly surprised. Thanks to impressive ERAs, FIPs, and batting averages, the 2025 season has already upended many early expectations for New York’s baseball teams.

Works Cited:

Harper, J. (2025, April 22). Mets pitchers making early-season statement after back-to-back impressive showings against Phillies. SNY. https://sny.tv/articles/mets-starting-rotation-bullpen-pitching-phillies

Press, A. (2025, April 23). Rodón gives Yankees strong start to salvage series finale with Guardians. The Morning Call. https://www.mcall.com/2025/04/23/rodon-gives-yankees-strong-start-to-salvage-series-finale-with-guardians/