Forward-thinking Mets get creative with footballs to sharpen base running

The Mets are thinking outside the box in Spring Training, using footballs in base running drills to reinforce heads-up play, echoing key players' commitment to improvement.

Feb 16, 2025; Port St. Lucie, FL, USA; New York Mets outfielder Juan Soto, right, talks with catcher Luis Torrens (13) during spring training. Mandatory Credit: Jim Rassol-Imagn Images | Jim Rassol-Imagn Images

Today, the New York Mets introduced an unconventional twist to their base running drills, incorporating footballs into the process.

Baserunning drills (with a football) for Juan Soto and more this morning 🏈 pic.twitter.com/QTZOTJRqlv

— SNY Mets (@SNY_Mets) February 17, 2025

Coaches tossed footballs to runners as they rounded third base, emphasizing the importance of keeping their heads—tracking both the ball and base coaches rather than simply focusing on reaching home plate. The drill is an innovative approach to reinforcing situational awareness and decision-making on the basepaths.

Refining Skills for Continuous Improvement

This development aligns well with Juan Soto's comments to the media during his first day at Mets camp yesterday. Soto, already one of baseball's premier offensive players, spoke at length about his commitment to improving all facets of his game, explicitly mentioning base running and defense as his key focus areas. His willingness to acknowledge room for growth—even as an elite hitter—demonstrates a player's mindset dedicated to continuous improvement.

Juan Soto says he's looking to improve his defense and baserunning this year

Soto also says that winning a Gold Glove is important to him pic.twitter.com/hxhNW0G6KD

— SNY (@SNYtv) February 16, 2025

The Mets' incorporation of a drill that addresses base running awareness, especially following Soto's remarks, indicates that the organization is equally committed to refining the small but crucial aspects of the game across the entire team.

Read More: Juan Soto is "really happy" about being a Met for the next 15 years

Spring training is always a time for optimism, but it also serves as an opportunity to establish habits that will carry into the regular season. If an exercise like this helps even one player enhance his efficiency on the bases—whether it's Soto or another team member—it could lead to significant and tangible improvements throughout the 162-game season.

Forward-Thinking Mets

While using a football in base running drills may seem unconventional, it reflects a forward-thinking strategy that could make a difference as the club pursues a championship. With a player of Soto's caliber leading the way in seeking improvement, the Mets are fostering a culture where even the game's best strive to enhance their skills.