A Tough Loss Behind the Plate
With him side lined, Luis Torrens is expected to step in behind the plate. While Torrens is a solid option, there’s no denying the gap in talent. Alvarez was primed for a breakout season after an encouraging 2024 campaign, making his injury even more frustrating for the Mets.
Losing a key catcher isn’t just about missing his bat—it disrupts the entire pitching staff’s rhythm. Catchers serve as the quarterbacks of baseball, responsible for calling games, framing pitches, and managing the flow. Alvarez’s connection with the rotation will be noticeably absent in the early weeks of the season.
When Will Alvarez Be Back?
Alvarez’s recovery timeline is estimated to be between six and eight weeks, and he’s taking a straightforward approach—listening to his body.
“It’s on me,” Alvarez told SNY. “If my body needs more time, maybe eight weeks. If I feel good and comfortable, I can come back sooner.”
That projects his return for late April or early May, meaning the Mets will have to get through the first month without their starting catcher.
While an earlier return around the six-week mark would be ideal, the team is likely to be cautious to ensure he’s fully ready when he comes back.
A Delayed Breakout Season?
Heading into spring training, Alvarez seemed poised for a breakout season. While his home run total dropped from 25 to 11 last year, his overall offensive production improved, posting a 102 wRC+ compared to 97 in 2023. These numbers indicate he was trending in the right direction, even if the power wasn’t quite there.
Now, instead of building momentum from Opening Day, he’ll be playing catch-up once he returns. He still has the potential for a strong season, but with one less month to work with. The Mets will be hoping that when he’s back, he can pick up right where he left off—without any setbacks or limitations.
