After four straight fourth-place finishes, and with a dominant NL East staring them in the face, there are plenty of questions surrounding the Mets.
While general manager Sandy Alderson walks the tightrope of trying to simultaneously rebuild and compete, here are some of the biggest issues facing the team.
Most important story in camp
Is the Mets’ young pitching really talented enough to resurrect the franchise? Matt Harvey was dominant for the final two months of last season and Zack Wheeler is a stud prospect, but both have plenty to prove.
Best position battle
Center field and right field are wide open, with Kirk Nieuwenhuis, Collin Cowgill, Andrew Brown, Mike Baxter, Jordany Valdespin and Marlon Byrd in the mix.
Most intriguing rookie or minor leaguer
Travis d’Arnaud was the centerpiece of the R.A. Dickey trade to Toronto and could end the revolving door the Mets have had at catcher for several years.
Story to develop
If Wheeler shines in spring training, how long will the Mets keep him at Triple-A? Or will Wheeler have a shot at making the Opening Day roster?
Manager’s toughest challenge
If the Mets start slowly the whispers about his job security will turn to shouts. Collins is in the final year of his contract.
Who needs to step up
Lucas Duda struggled last season and returned to Triple-A. The Mets need 25-plus homers from him to help compensate for his defensive shortcomings.
Most interesting newcomer
Brandon Lyon gives the Mets another option at closer should Frank Francisco flop this spring. At the very least, Lyon could fortify the eighth inning.
Most notable absence
Dickey won the Cy Young Award and emerged as the most popular Mets player behind David Wright.
Biggest comeback
Johan Santana faded last summer and was ultimately shut down in August. Does he have enough stamina remaining to survive an entire season?