Meet at the Apple

Meet at the Apple with your hosts Vito Calise (@VitoFCalise) and Jonathan Baron (@JMB9191) every Monday and Thursday with exclusive access to the Mets! This is not your everyday baseball podcast; you can get the stats anywhere… Here you’ll get an inside look into the players you love to watch beyond the diamond highlighted by a weekly appearance by Mets manager, Carlos Mendoza!

Baseball
Sports
1
Is Citi Field The Best Home Field Advantage In ...
The New York Mets just SWEPT the St. Louis Cardinals in a wild four-game series at Citi Field — and Meet at the Apple is here to break it all down! From Francisco Lindor’s iconic walk-off home run to Brandon Nimmo’s game-saving grab and Kodai Senga’s dominant start, Vito and Jon take you inside the biggest moments of the weekend. We’re talking Pete Alonso’s MVP-level production, Juan Soto starting to get HOT in a Mets uniform, the rise of Luisangel Acuña, elite Mets pitching, and whether Citi Field is officially a nightmare for opponents. Plus: The Wave Debate, prospect updates from Future Flushing, and a look ahead to a huge series against the Phillies. Don’t miss this jam-packed episode of the official podcast of the New York Mets — presented by PC Richard & Son. ⏱️ Timestamps / YouTube Chapters: 00:00 - Lindor’s Walk-Off: Cold Blooded 00:27 - Mets Sweep the Cardinals: A Statement Weekend 01:13 - Citi Field Is Rocking (In April!) 02:11 - Why This Feels Like a Pennant Race 03:07 - Star Power: Lindor, Soto, Alonso 04:35 - 🔥 Top 5 Moments of the Series 04:40 - #5: Lindor’s Leadoff HR in Game 4 05:47 - #4: Nimmo Robs a HR 07:06 - #3: Kodai Senga’s Ghost Fork Dominance 08:48 - #2: Mark Vientos Goes Deep (Twice) 09:59 - #1: Lindor’s Walk-Off Magic 12:18 - Is Lindor a Hall of Famer? 13:59 - The Great Citi Field Wave Debate 16:01 - Wave vs No-Wave: The Energy Argument 20:04 - Mets Pitching Is ELITE 21:58 - Griffin Canning and Clay Holmes Stand Out 25:03 - David Peterson’s Sneaky Greatness 27:44 - Bullpen Dominance: Minter, Diaz, Garrett 29:35 - Rotation Variety Is a Nightmare for Opponents 32:00 - Acuña Rising: Mets' Spark Plug 34:49 - Tyrone Taylor: Unsung Hero 35:30 - Juan Soto: The Ted Williams Swing 36:45 - Mets All-Stars? Lindor, Soto, Alonso, Acuña 38:44 - Future Flushing: Blade Tidwell, Sproat, Hammel 44:14 - Jett Williams Slugging, Marco Vargas Balling 47:07 - Chandler Marsh: Undrafted Gem 49:15 - Minor League Infield of the Future 50:56 - Preview: Phillies Series at Citi Field
52 min
2
Luisangel Acuña: CLUTCH KING?! Plus HOODIE SOTO...
The Mets just dropped a tough series to the Twins, but is it time to panic or are there real reasons to stay optimistic? Vito and Jon break down all the highs and lows from the road trip, discuss Luisangel Acuña’s breakout, and debate what’s next for the lineup and the pitching staff.
44 min
3
Are The Mets The Best Team in The National Leag...
The Mets just took another series and might be the best team in the National League?! We’ve got all the answers—and a full look at the red-hot Mets farm system.
47 min
4
What Will SPARK The Mets Offense Going into Sac...
The vibes are back in Queens! The crew is LIVE from Citi Field recapping a thrilling 5-1 homestand for the Mets. From big-time plays on the field to elite energy from the fans in the stands, this opening week had it all. We break down the top five moments from the Marlins series, Pete Alonso's red-hot bat, the impact of Juan Soto, and what to expect as the Mets head west. Plus, a loaded "Future of Flushing" update featuring rising stars in Brooklyn and Binghamton.
43 min
5
Carlos Mendoza Talks Pete Alonso, Bullpen Stren...
On this episode of Meet at the Apple, Mets manager Carlos Mendoza joins hosts Vito Calise and Jonathan Baron from Citi Field for a deep-dive conversation on the 2025 New York Mets. The trio reflects on the electric atmosphere of Opening Day, the emergence of key players like Pete Alonso and Luis Torrens, the strategy behind plate discipline, and the crucial role of the bullpen
18 min
6
The Mets SWEEP the Blue Jays! Are They About to...
In this episode of Meet at the Apple, Vito Calise and Jon Baron break down the Mets' electrifying sweep over the Toronto Blue Jays and ask the big question — are the Mets about to take off in 2025?
45 min
7
BIGGEST Home Opener EVER?! And THE TRUTH About ...
Opening Day is here, and the vibes are immaculate! Vito Calise and Jon Baron are LIVE from Citi Field to break down everything Mets fans need to know. From Pete Alonso’s red-hot start and game-winning grand slam to Hayden Senger’s first MLB hit and Luis Torrens becoming a defensive machine — we’ve got your top 5 Mets stories from the Marlins series. ⚾ We also dive into the dominant bullpen, Kodai Senga’s nasty ghost fork, and David Peterson’s strikeout clinic. Plus: Citi Field’s newest addition — the 5 Borough Mascot Race! We’re talking surprises, giveaways, magnetic schedules, and maybe even an upgraded Edwin Díaz entrance 👀 And stick around to the end for an exclusive interview with Victus Sports founder Jared Smith as he breaks down the viral torpedo bats that are changing MLB. What are they? Are they legal? And how can they help YOU hit bombs?
48 min
8
Designing Cleats for Pete Alonso, David Wright ...
Anthony De Lucia of Lucia Footwear Co. joins Vito Calise and Jon Baron for a deep dive into the art of custom cleats.
34 min
9
Will The Mets Ride Pitching Into The Postseason...
Three games into the season and Mets pitching is already turning heads. Vito and Jon break down an encouraging opening series in Houston — from Juan Soto’s first homer as a Met, to dominant bullpen performances, and breakout starts from Tyler Megill, Griffin Canning, and Clay Holmes. Plus, we show some love to Blade Tidwell, give props to @,MetsJr69 and talk about the vibes heading into the Marlins series. 🎧 Hosted by: Vito Calise (@VitoFCalise) & Jonathan Baron (@JMB9191) 📍 New episodes all season long — Subscribe so you never miss a pitch! Subscribe - https://linktr.ee/meetattheapple
52 min
10
2025 Season Preview | Are We Going To See One O...
Opening Day is here, Mets fans! Vito and Jon are back in studio for a special Meet at the Apple season preview. From breakout candidates to bold predictions, we're diving into the top five things we're most excited about for 2025.
40 min
11
Did Ryne Stanek and Sean Manea Help Get Pete Al...
Ryne Stanek joins the show to talk about why he chose to return to the Mets, the family atmosphere in the clubhouse, and how offseason training with teammates like Sean and Pete played a big part in “running it back.” Stanek also opens up about the biomechanical tweaks that helped him return to form on the mound — plus, we get into his not-so-subtle arrival in camp driving the “War Machine” and his impressive streak of postseason appearances. 🍎 Meet at the Apple – Presented by the New York Mets 🔔 Subscribe for more player interviews and behind-the-scenes stories from Citi Field. ⏱️ Timestamps: 00:00 – Stanek on his first days with the Mets and early conversations about team culture 00:28 – Offseason training with Sean, Pete, and Vader builds offseason chemistry 01:10 – The “War Machine” car and pulling up in style 01:49 – Re-signing with the Mets: more than just baseball – it’s family 02:26 – How the Mets helped his family adjust to life in NYC 03:38 – Clubhouse vibes vs. on-field performance 04:32 – The Mets’ role in helping him rediscover his mechanics 06:00 – Biomechanics, training staff, and syncing everything up 07:15 – Stanek’s five straight postseason appearances 07:45 – Free agency realities and the behind-the-scenes friendships 09:39 – Life decisions and the weight of moving city to city 10:07 – Final thoughts and gratitude from Stanek
10 min
12
Luisangel Acuña Talks Call-Up, Juan Soto, Rona...
We sit down with Luisangel Acuña, one of the New York Mets’ most exciting young players, for an in-depth and personal interview at Spring Training. Luisangel opens up about his MLB debut, filling in for Francisco Lindor, being part of the blockbuster Max Scherzer trade, what it’s like being the brother of Ronald Acuña Jr., and his favorite moments in a Mets uniform so far.
9 min
13
AJ Minter on Why David Peterson and The Mets Tr...
9 min
14
Edwin Díaz on Mets Playoff Heroics, Juan Soto &...
9 min
15
Brett Baty Talks Spring Training, Competing for...
Mets third baseman Brett Baty sits down with Meet at the Apple to talk about his 2025 season mindset, switching jersey numbers, and his battle for a starting role. Baty opens up about his confidence in becoming a star, adjusting to multiple infield positions, and what it's like to be back in camp with teammates. Must-watch for all Mets fans!
7 min
16
Francisco Lindor Breaks Down His Biggest Mets M...
New York Mets superstar Francisco Lindor joins Meet at the Apple for an exclusive interview, diving deep into his most iconic moments at Citi Field, the electric fan atmosphere, and his mindset heading into the 2025 season. From his unforgettable postseason Grand Slam against the Phillies to ranking his biggest regular season home runs, Lindor shares never-before-heard insights into his career, personal moments, and what it means to play in front of the best fans in baseball.
11 min
17
Brandon Nimmo Talks Mets' Playoff Run, Pete Alo...
🔥 Brandon Nimmo joins us to talk about the New York Mets' epic playoff run, clinching at Citi Field, his beard transformation, and the return of Pete Alonso! 😱 Plus, inside stories about Michael Harris' antics, the Phillies rivalry, and how the Mets are building a dynasty.
18 min
18
Mark Vientos Breaks Down NLCS Grand Slam & Text...
We got to sit down with Mark Vientos aka Swaggy V and talk to him about the difference in Spring Training 2025 vs 2024, we watch his NLCS Grand Slam together and then he gives us the bts on where he was when Juan Soto signed with the New York Mets.
5 min
19
Jesse Winker REACTS To Nice Tweets, Explains Wh...
Jesse Winker stops by Meet at the Apple to speak with us about how he wanted to come back to the Mets from the second the season ended, his love for the fans, he reacts to NICE tweets this time, gives us the breakdown of his pre-game laying on the grass routine and talks about his excitement for the 2025 season. The interview also gets a surprise guest appearance from his daughter Wren and you can see first-hand how much Jesse beams over being a father.
19 min
20
Tylor Megill Talks American Spork Origin, Jerem...
Tylor Megill Talks American Spork Origin, Jeremy Hefner, & His Love for MTV’s Jersey Shore We sit down with Tylor Megill to talk about his evolving pitching arsenal, the origins of his American spork, and his clutch performances down the stretch last season. He also gives us a hilarious deep dive into his Jersey Shore fandom (yes, he’s a Vinny guy), reacts to iconic show moments, and even shares his thoughts on a potential Seaside Heights tour with the squad. PLUS, we talk about his relationship with Francisco Álvarez, his growth as a pitcher, and what the Mets clubhouse is really like behind the scenes. DON’T FORGET TO: ✅ Like this video! ✅ Subscribe for more exclusive Mets content! ✅ Comment below: What’s your favorite Megill moment? #NewYorkMets #LGM #TylorMegill #MetsPodcast #MLB #GhostFork #BaseballTalk Time Stamps 00:00 - Tylor Megill on the American Spork 00:52 - How the pitch moves & when he uses it 02:05 - Adjusting his approach in the 2023 season 02:50 - Tylor’s excitement for a Jersey Shore first pitch 03:45 - Tylor reacts to iconic Jersey Shore moments 06:30 - Would he visit the Jersey Shore House? 07:00 - Breaking down his clutch September performances 08:40 - Which start meant the most to him? 09:22 - The Mets clubhouse culture & team chemistry 10:05 - Tylor’s relationship with Jeremy Hefner 10:50 - Facing his brother in the playoffs & family reactions 11:30 - Do his parents wear a split Mets/Brewers jersey? 12:10 - Francisco Álvarez’s impact & leadership 12:50 - Final thoughts & signing off
13 min
21
Blade Tidwell on His First Big League Camp, Off...
🔥 Mets pitching prospect Blade Tidwell joins Meet at the Apple to talk about his first Major League camp, his offseason gains (lots of steak & sweet potatoes!), and the adjustments he’s made as he moves up the minor league ranks. From dodging foul balls in minor league camp to refining his pitch mix in Triple-A, Blade shares insight into his journey and his excitement for the future. 📌 Timestamps 00:00 - Intro 00:30 - Blade's first Major League camp experience 01:15 - His offseason training routine 02:00 - The legendary "chicken place" recommendation 02:50 - Working on his pitch mix & minor league adjustments 03:45 - First outing of the year & handling adrenaline 04:30 - The challenges of pitching in the International League 05:10 - Biggest differences between Double-A & Triple-A 06:00 - His relationship with former MLB pitcher David Weathers 06:45 - Playing with Drew Gilbert & their journey through the system 07:30 - Learning from Major Leaguers at camp 08:10 - Blade’s pitching inspirations: Pedro Martinez & Tim Lincecum 08:45 - Connecting with younger prospects & passing on knowledge 09:00 - Outro & where to follow Meet at the Apple 🎧 Subscribe for more exclusive Mets interviews & content! 🚀 #Mets #BladeTidwell #MeetAtTheApple #LGM
9 min
22
Jose Siri Talks Bat Flipping, Being Confident a...
In his first ever interview fully in English, Jose Siri talks about what his first thoughts were when getting traded to the New York Mets. Siri talks about his style of play coming from a confident place, going from the number 22 to 19, the gift he got his mom for Valentine’s Day, the speculated beef between him and Juan Soto and a general get to know you with one of NYCs newest studs!
11 min
23
Kodai Senga Talks About Excitement for 2025, Hi...
As Kodai Senga looks toward a gigantic return to the Mets rotation in 2025 he sits with Meet at the Apple to discuss how excited he is for the season to get started, how he’s feeling health wise, and his relationships with Francisco Alvarez, Edwin Diaz and Jeremy Hefner.
7 min
24
Juan Soto Talks Relationship with Francisco Alv...
In a quick catch up with Juan Soto during Spring Training, we tell Juan Soto how good his numbers at Citi, his friendship with Donovan Mitchell and his relationship with Francisco Alvarez. We also presented him with a CUSTOM BAT from the great people over at Victus and some swingable art from the Bat King Bruce Tatem!
4 min
25
David Peterson Talks Key Postseason Moments, Fa...
In this episode of Meet at the Apple, Mets pitcher David Peterson takes us inside some of the most iconic moments from last season, including clutch performances in Milwaukee and Philadelphia. He breaks down the win-or-go-home mindset, what it was like to face Kyle Schwarber and Juan Soto, and the emotions of clinching a postseason berth. Plus, Peterson shares his thoughts on AJ Minter’s recovery from hip surgery, his own journey back from injury, and what it means to be a part of this Mets pitching staff in 2024. 🔥 Topics Covered: 🔹 Breaking down key postseason double plays (00:03:25) 🔹 Clinching moments vs. Milwaukee & Philadelphia (00:07:42) 🔹 Holding Juan Soto to a .105 batting average! (00:08:25) 🔹 The mindset of facing elite hitters like Schwarber & Soto (00:08:44) 🔹 Connecting with new Mets reliever AJ Minter (00:09:23) 🔹 Recovery from hip surgery & returning stronger in 2024 (00:09:50) 📍 Timestamps: 00:00 - Breaking down a critical moment vs. Schwarber in the postseason 00:01:28 - Reflecting on 2023 & recovering from hip surgery 02:20 - Biggest key starts from last season 03:25 - Breaking down key double plays in Milwaukee & Arizona 06:56 - Clinching the NLCS & celebrating with teammates 07:42 - Getting a clutch ground ball to secure a win vs. the Phillies 08:25 - David Peterson’s insane career numbers vs. Juan Soto 08:44 - The challenge of facing elite hitters like Schwarber & Soto 09:23 - Talking with AJ Minter about hip surgery recovery 09:50 - Final thoughts & excitement for 2024 📲 Follow us: ➡️ Twitter: @VitoFCalise | @JMB9191 ➡️ Subscribe for more Mets content! 🎥
10 min