Mets Kick Off 2026 Season Against Pirates with Star-Studded Lineup
The Fresh York Mets begin their 2026 Major League Baseball season on Thursday, March 26th, at Citi Field, hosting the Pittsburgh Pirates on Opening Day. The Mets, aiming to rebound from a disappointing 2025, will feature a revamped roster including returning stars Juan Soto and Francisco Lindor, alongside recent acquisitions Bo Bichette and Marcus Semien.
Key Players and Lineup
Francisco Lindor will lead off and play shortstop after recovering from early spring hamate surgery as reported by the New York Post. Juan Soto will bat second, providing protection for Lindor, and Bo Bichette will create his Mets debut at third base.
The lineup also includes Jorge Polanco at first base – his first official start at the position – Luis Robert Jr. In center field, Brett Baty as the designated hitter, Marcus Semien at second base, and rookie Carson Benge, who will face Pirates pitcher Paul Skenes in his MLB debut. Francisco Alvarez will handle catching duties, rounding out the Mets’ Opening Day lineup according to the New York Post.
Looking Ahead
The Mets enter the 2026 season under pressure to return to playoff contention after missing the postseason in 2025 as noted by Heavy.com. Juan Soto, transitioning from right to left field, is expected to be a key contributor, with some predicting he will contend for the National League MVP award according to WFAN’s Tommy Lugauer. Fans can follow live game and pre-game coverage from Queens on NBC New York as detailed by NBC New York.