Mets Spring Training 2026: First Workouts, Home Opener & More

As winter's chill begins to recede, the promise of warmer weather isn't the only thing on the minds of New York Mets fans. The unmistakable sound of cleats on dirt, the crack of the bat, and the roar of the crowd are just around the corner, signaling the start of Mets Spring Training 2026. This year promises to be a thrilling prelude to the regular season, packed with key dates, exciting matchups, and the initial glimpses of the team that will contend for a championship.

From the earliest bullpen sessions in Port St. Lucie to the highly anticipated home opener at Clover Park, every moment of spring training is a crucial step in preparing the squad for the marathon season ahead. Fans, whether making the pilgrimage to Florida or tuning in from home, have a full schedule of events to anticipate.

The Road to Opening Day: Key Dates for Mets Spring Training 2026

The journey to the regular season isn't an overnight affair; it's a meticulously planned progression that builds momentum. For the Mets, this annual ritual begins in early February, kicking off a series of crucial workouts and exhibition games.

Pitchers & Catchers Report: The Official Kick-Off

The earliest birds to arrive are always the pitchers and catchers, crucial for setting the tone for the entire spring. These foundational members of the team will have their first official Mets Spring Training workout on Wednesday, February 11. This initial phase focuses on developing arm strength, refining mechanics, and building rapport between battery mates. It's a time for pitchers to shake off the rust, test new grips, and for catchers to get reacquainted with their signals and handling various arsenals. For devoted fans, catching these early workouts offers an exclusive look at the raw talent and dedication that underpins the team's success.

Position Players Join the Fray

Just five days later, the full squad begins to assemble. Position players are set to get their workouts underway on Monday, February 16. With the complete roster present, the intensity ramps up. Daily drills will cover everything from intricate defensive schemes to batting practice, allowing coaches to evaluate talent, assess player conditioning, and begin to piece together the puzzle of the opening day lineup. This is often when the competitive spirit truly ignites, as players vie for roster spots and playing time.

First Pitch: The Grapefruit League Home Opener

The real excitement kicks off when the exhibition games begin. The Mets will host the Miami Marlins for their first Grapefruit League game of the season on Saturday, February 21, at 1:00 p.m. at Clover Park in Port St. Lucie. This highly anticipated matchup serves as the official Mets Spring Training home opener, providing fans with their first taste of live baseball. From this date through Sunday, March 1, the team is scheduled to play one game per day, offering a consistent opportunity for players to get crucial game repetitions. Following this initial stretch, the team will get its first full off day on Monday, March 2, a much-needed break for players to rest and regroup before the final push of spring training.

Catching the Action: SNY Broadcasts and Special Appearances

For those who can't make the pilgrimage to Florida, SNY once again solidifies its role as the official television home of the New York Mets, bringing the excitement of spring training directly to fans. Their comprehensive broadcast schedule ensures that even from afar, you won't miss a beat of the action.

Your Official Home for Mets Baseball

SNY’s live coverage of Mets Spring Training will swing into action with the home opener against the Miami Marlins on Saturday, February 21, at 1 p.m. This broadcast will kick off a series of exclusive presentations, allowing fans to get early glimpses of new acquisitions, top prospects, and familiar faces as they prepare for the rigors of the regular season. Keeping track of the full broadcast schedule is essential for any devoted fan. For a detailed breakdown of all televised games and key dates, be sure to check out our dedicated article: Mets 2026 Spring Training Schedule: Key Dates & SNY Broadcast Details.

Daniel Murphy's Return to the Booth

Adding an extra layer of fan-favorite insight, former Mets All-Star Daniel Murphy will once again join the SNY broadcast booth as an analyst. Murphy, a beloved figure from recent Mets history, brings his unique perspective from years of playing at the highest level. Fans can look forward to his commentary alongside Gary Cohen for two specific games: Tuesday, February 24, against Houston, and Wednesday, February 25, against St. Louis. His presence is sure to provide valuable analysis and nostalgic charm, enhancing the viewing experience for everyone.

Beyond the Pitch: Major Events and Fan Experiences

Beyond the daily grind of practices and games, Mets Spring Training 2026 is punctuated by several highly anticipated events that offer unique storylines and fan engagement opportunities.

The Spring Training Subway Series: A Florida Rivalry

One of the most anticipated matchups each spring is the iconic Subway Series, pitting the Mets against their crosstown rivals, the New York Yankees. This spring, the two teams will clash in exhibition action from Clover Park on Sunday, March 8. While it's only spring training, the intensity of this rivalry always makes for a compelling game, regardless of the stakes. This particular game will be broadcast on PIX11, ensuring a wide audience can tune in to witness the initial skirmishes between these two fanbases. Expect a lively atmosphere, even in the casual setting of Port St. Lucie.

Impact of the World Baseball Classic on the Roster

March brings with it not only the intensifying Grapefruit League schedule but also the global stage of the World Baseball Classic (WBC). Several Mets players have either been officially announced or are very likely to join their respective national teams as participants in this prestigious international tournament. WBC games begin on March 5 and 6, depending on the pool, with the championship final scheduled for Tuesday, March 17, at the Marlins’ ballpark in Miami.

The WBC presents both challenges and opportunities for the Mets. While the absence of key players will provide opportunities for prospects and non-roster invitees to showcase their skills, it also means the team will need to manage player conditioning and integration back into the lineup carefully. Fans will be keenly watching to see which Mets stars represent their countries and how their involvement impacts the team's spring training strategy. For a deeper dive into how the WBC might shape the Mets' roster and player performance, check out our comprehensive analysis: Mets 2026 Spring Training: WBC Player Impact & Subway Series Buzz.

The Grand Finale: Spring Training Home Closer and Opening Day Look Ahead

As Mets Spring Training winds down, the focus sharply shifts to the regular season. The Mets' spring training home finale will take place on Sunday, March 21, when they host the Houston Astros at 1:10 p.m. This game serves as the final tune-up at Clover Park before the team heads north. It's a critical opportunity for players to fine-tune their approaches and for managers to finalize roster decisions.

The anticipation for the real deal then builds rapidly, with Opening Day against the Pittsburgh Pirates set for Thursday, March 26, at 1:10 p.m. This marks the official start of the 2026 MLB season for the Mets, signifying the culmination of weeks of hard work and preparation in the Florida sun.

Planning Your Trip to Port St. Lucie: Tips for Fans

For dedicated fans planning to attend Mets Spring Training in person, Port St. Lucie offers a fantastic opportunity to get up close and personal with your favorite team. Making the trip can be an unforgettable experience, and a little planning goes a long way.

Experience Clover Park: Clover Park provides an intimate setting that truly immerses fans in the baseball experience. Unlike large regular-season stadiums, spring training venues allow for closer proximity to the players, often making it easier to catch a stray batting practice ball or even an autograph before or after games. Arriving early for morning workouts before games can sometimes offer the best chances for player interactions.
Secure Tickets and Accommodations Early: Popular games, especially the home opener and the Subway Series against the Yankees, tend to sell out quickly. It's advisable to purchase tickets as soon as they become available. Similarly, booking hotel accommodations well in advance is crucial, as Port St. Lucie and surrounding areas can fill up fast during peak spring training periods.
Explore Port St. Lucie: Beyond the ballpark, Port St. Lucie and the Treasure Coast offer beautiful beaches, nature preserves, and various dining options. Take advantage of the pleasant Florida weather to explore the local attractions.
Hydrate and Protect: Florida sunshine can be intense. Remember to stay hydrated, use sunscreen, and wear a hat to make your experience comfortable and enjoyable.

From the first bullpen sessions to the final tune-up games, Mets Spring Training 2026 is poised to be an unmissable prelude to what promises to be an exciting New York Mets season. With key dates marked, broadcasts scheduled, and a host of intriguing storylines, the path to Opening Day is set to be a captivating journey for players and fans alike. Get ready for baseball!