By Sunday 
Opening Day Glory Doesn’t Guarantee Job Security
Baseball rosters are like revolving doors—what seems like a set lineup in March can look entirely different by May. The New York Mets’ Opening Day roster is set, but some players are already on shaky ground. Whether due to underperformance, positional logjams, or inevitable roster shuffling, a handful of Mets could be staring down an early exit.
Let’s take a closer look at six players who may not be around by the time the calendar flips to May.
1) Danny Young – The Lefty on Borrowed Time
Being a left-handed reliever usually comes with some job security, but Danny Young’s roster spot is anything but safe. While he edged out competition in spring training, his lack of minor-league options could put him in a precarious position if the Mets need to shake things up.
Last season, Young showed flashes of dominance, particularly in July and August, but a rough September left lingering doubts. If he struggles early on, the Mets might not hesitate to replace him with a fresh arm.
2) Max Kranick – A Strong Spring, But Still on the Bubble
Max Kranick was one of the feel-good stories of spring training, posting a stellar 1.46 ERA with 15 strikeouts in 12.1 innings. Fans quickly warmed up to the right-hander, but his limited big-league experience (just 43.2 innings) means he’s far from a lock to stick around.
With Paul Blackburn set to return, the Mets will likely need to clear a bullpen spot. If Kranick falters or the team needs a fresh arm, he could be optioned to Triple-A. His fate may depend on how much mileage the Mets get out of their bullpen early in the season.
3) Huascar Brazoban – A Walk Away from Trouble
Huascar Brazoban earned his Opening Day roster spot with an impressive 1.69 ERA in spring training, but one troubling stat remains—walks. He issued six free passes in just 10.2 innings, and that wildness could be his undoing.
Brazoban’s performance with the Mets last season was inconsistent, featuring a 5.14 ERA and a concerning 14 walks in 21 innings. If he struggles to throw strikes, the Mets won’t hesitate to send him packing.
4) Luisangel Acuña – The Odd Man Out?
The younger Acuña brother made the Opening Day roster, but for how long? The Mets love his speed and versatility, but his playing time could be limited, especially if Brett Baty takes hold of second base.
With Jeff McNeil expected to return from the injured list later in the season, Acuña may be sent down to get regular at-bats in Triple-A rather than riding the bench in Queens. His long-term future with the Mets looks promising, but his immediate status is uncertain.
5) Hayden Senger – A Temporary Backup?
Catcher Hayden Senger doesn’t need to do much to hold onto his roster spot—just play solid defense and handle the pitching staff competently. However, with Luis Torrens ahead of him and other options waiting in the wings, Senger is one bad stretch away from losing his job.
The Mets don’t have a pressing need to carry multiple backup catchers, and if Senger struggles at the plate, the team may opt to replace him with a more experienced option.
6) Tylor Megill – Living on the Edge
Tylor Megill has been in this position before—one foot in the rotation, the other in limbo. With Paul Blackburn expected back in April and Sean Manaea not far behind, the Mets could soon face a tough decision regarding their rotation.
Megill has had flashes of brilliance, but consistency has eluded him. If he stumbles in his early starts, he could find himself either in the bullpen or back in Triple-A, waiting for his next shot.
Final Thoughts: Who Will Still Be Here on May 1?
The Mets’ roster is far from set in stone. Injuries, slumps, and unexpected performances will dictate who stays and who goes. While these six players made the team out of camp, they’ll need to prove they belong—or risk being the first ones shown the door.
For now, they’re Mets. But in a month’s time? That’s a whole different story.