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 Francisco Lindor Going To Lead The Mets To T...
Francisco Lindor is scorching—nine-game hit streak, .500 AVG, 1.400+ OPS—and when he’s hot, the Mets are hot. But after a maddening set in D.C. (late swings, one-run pain, bullpen stress), it’s straight into Atlanta for a season-defining weekend. We hit Alvarez’s injury, Peterson’s gem, Kodai Senga’s uneven start, Baty/Vientos/Marte bright spots, the injury pile, bullpen asks, and why that Reds series (Sept 5–7) looms huge. Plus: Nolan McLean buzz, live show details, and our fantasy league idea. Let’s reset and believe. Subscribe & drop your ATL series prediction ⬇️ #Chapters 00:00 Lindor’s heater + tone-setter 01:05 Alvarez update & mood swing 02:00 Game 1 positives: Vientos/Baty, Peterson gem 03:18 Where it unraveled: Senga start & late chances 04:20 Three-run cushion… gone: the finale sting 05:00 Standings reality & Reds series circle 06:00 The 2016 vibes & “dogfight” frame 07:00 Injury pile tally (pitchers & bats) 09:10 NL chaos: why there’s still a path 10:05 Braves preview: matchups, what it takes 11:10 Baty’s August, Lindor leadoff HR record 12:00 Vientos/Marte uptick & two-out hitting 13:15 Bullpen asks & starters past 6? 14:10 Nolan McLean excitement (expectations) 15:20 Weekend reset: times, atmosphere, vibes 16:30 Fantasy league idea (join in comments) 17:40 PC Richard LIVE SHOW (Sept 8) prizes 19:00 Final rally: Believe & enjoy the weekend
40 min
2
How Excited is David Wright for Nolan McLean & ...
David Wright joins Meet at the Apple to unpack ’07 vs ’08, the Delgado Hall of Fame debate, Johan’s 2008 heroics, and the chemistry that built the mid-2000s Mets core. Then we count down Mets–Mariners Top 5: Jonah Tong’s AAA debut, Lindor/Soto going back-to-back, Manaea’s booth moment, Vientos’ opposite-field dagger, and Nolan McLean’s electric debut. Plus: Alvarez update vibes, Gregory Soto’s quiet dominance, and what’s next in D.C. We even close with a quick detour into HBO’s The Gilded Age with Ben Ahlers who plays Jack the footman turned inventor! Subscribe for more Mets interviews, series recaps, and clubhouse stories. 00:00 Young call-ups & clubhouse energy (Nolan McLean spark) 00:34 Welcome David Wright 01:11 ’07 vs ’08 — which “got away”? 02:10 Johan’s knee, three-days’ rest & rotation context 03:19 The 2005 “turning point” team (Pedro, Beltrán, Jacobs) 05:13 Building a core: friendships → winning baseball 06:23 Carlos Delgado = Hall of Famer? Leadership & hitting lessons 07:52 Blind-ranking Wright moments (bare-hander, Citi HR, 2015 return, WS HR, Mo walk-off) 09:23 Why the Mo walk-off was the “I made it” moment 09:38 Yankees respect vs true NL East rivalries 10:45 Post-interview reset 11:49 Little League Classic weekend vibes 15:14 Top 5 — #5 Jonah Tong dominates AAA debut 16:59 Top 5 — #4 Lindor/Soto go back-to-back vs Castillo 17:56 Top 5 — #3 Manaea’s booth cameo & jokes 19:20 Top 5 — #2 Vientos’ opposite-field three-run HR off Kirby 20:37 Top 5 — #1 Nolan McLean’s dazzling debut (& behind-the-back DP) 22:34 McLean’s two-way past and why pitching won out 23:46 Clubhouse celebration lore (postgame “bath”) 25:05 Fans showed up — crowd energy at Citi 26:02 Big homestand → Phillies looming 27:26 Manfred chat & realignment fan-fic 28:08 Alvarez status + NL catcher OPS context since July 21 30:23 “Big Dumper” scouting report (comic relief) 31:57 Bullpen spotlight: Gregory Soto’s run, usage with McLean starts 35:09 On to Washington — keep the edge 38:26 Bonus: The Gilded Age chat with Ben Ahlers
54 min
3
Is Jonah Tong an ELITE Prospect?! | Jonah Tong ...
LIVE SHOW with Giveaways and MORE: P.C. Richard and Son in Astoria, Queens Monday September 8thMets top pitching prospect Jonah Tong joins Meet at the Apple ahead of his AAA Syracuse debut to break down the changeup grip that finally clicked (horseshoe between the fingers), the velocity jump to 99 mph, and why his 12–6 curve popped at the Futures Game. He talks about moving up with Jett Williams, Ryan Clifford, and Carson Benge, what he learned in the weight room, advice for the AA→AAA leap (“be me”), and repping Team Canada one day. Plus: Tim Lincecum inspo, “Canadian Cannon” nickname, Smash Bros vs. Sean Manaea, and more.Key moments:The grip tweak & why his cambio now tunnels and kills vert (10–11 mph off) Hitting 99 on the board before the call-up Futures Game curve he keeps rewatching Promoted with Jett, Clifford, Benge; culture in Bingo “Be me” advice for AAA & pitch mix (slider/change) Lincecum tapes with dad; “Canadian Cannon” shirts WBC Canada interest & the “eh” Bowman auto If you’re new here, we’re the official Mets podcast giving you the stories behind the box score. Subscribe for more interviews with the future of Flushing.
62 min
4
Inside Promotions of Jett Williams, Jonah Tong,...
The Mets’ future just got even brighter. Four top prospects – Jett Williams, Jonah Tong, Ryan Clifford, and Carson Benge – all got the call up to Triple-A, while AJ Ewing heads to Double-A. We break down what these promotions mean, who could make an impact in Queens sooner than expected, and why Jonah Tong’s dominance is must-watch. Plus, we talk Mets-Brewers, David Stearns’ Milwaukee ties, playoff odds, Juan Soto’s postseason potential, and why Citi Field vibes might just need a reset. Then, Islanders’ first overall pick Matt Schaefer joins the show for a fun, wide-ranging interview about New York food, chirping, and representing the orange and blue. CHAPTERS: 00:00 Mets promote top prospects – Williams, Tong, Clifford, Benge, Ewing 01:19 Mets-Brewers recap & blown leads frustration 03:08 Starling Marte’s base running mastery & Lindor’s rare error 05:16 Mets playoff odds & NL landscape 06:12 Brewers’ hot streak & MLB season ups/downs 07:20 Why Juan Soto changes everything in October 08:48 Soto’s 30-30 watch & Antoine Richardson’s base stealing magic 10:54 Braves preview & basepath aggression 11:49 American Family Field: Mets’ regular-season nightmare 12:45 Changing the vibes – superstitions & routines 16:59 Brewers fan takes foul ball from kid 18:43 Deep dive on the prospect promotions & Future of Flushing impact 20:04 Why Jett Williams could be a star 22:07 Ryan Clifford’s power surge & young core chemistry 24:02 Mets’ farm system depth & dynasty potential 26:00 Syracuse Mets dream lineup 27:20 Carson Benge’s elite bat & athleticism 27:42 Other rising prospects – Leon Pena, Jonathan Kentucky 28:37 Jonah Tong’s strikeout dominance & Triple-A debut 30:48 Why the Double-A to Triple-A jump is so hard 33:12 Kevin Parada’s resurgence & catcher depth 34:52 Patience with new Triple-A arrivals 36:13 Triple-A veteran hitters vs. young arms challenge 37:20 Fun with Syracuse team name ideas 38:06 Interview – Islanders #1 pick Matt Schaefer 46:40 Wrapping up with PC Richard & Son ad read 48:53 Braves series preview & Mariners ahead
50 min
5
Mets Post-Sweep Therapy Session w/ Jordan Simpson
The Mets just got swept by the Guardians at home — and yes, it was brutal. But this isn’t the place for sky-is-falling rants. Vito Calise and Jon Baron are joined by Mets Twitter mainstay Jordan Simpson to break down the latest series and remind fans: the season’s not over. We talk no-hitters, blown chances, bullpen bright spots, and why the vibes at Citi Field are still strong despite the standings. From Edwin Díaz’s heroics to why sending the runner wasn’t so simple, this is the positive (but honest) therapy session Mets fans need right now. 00:00 – Opening Rant: This Isn’t That Kind of Mets Podcast 00:49 – Welcome Jordan Simpson to the Show 01:10 – The Sweep: Breaking Down All 3 Games 02:27 – What’s Actually Holding the Mets Back? 03:55 – Jordan’s Positive Perspective on the Skid 05:13 – They’re Still in These Games — That’s Something 06:07 – Respect Cleveland (And Jose Ramirez) 07:45 – “Send Him or Don’t” Debate Breakdown 10:30 – The Little Things Adding Up 11:35 – Where Will Pete Alonso Hit HR #252? 12:40 – Jordan Talks Positivity on Mets Twitter 13:56 – Song Suggestions for Therapy Recaps 15:00 – Taking Your Kids to Citi Field 17:15 – This Team Still Has Star Power 18:50 – Comparing to Last Year’s Midseason Push 20:10 – The Path is Still in Front of Them 22:00 – Bullpen Bright Spots & Why There’s Hope 24:09 – Starting Pitching Strategy: Use an Opener? 25:50 – Citi Field Still Has the Best Vibes 26:30 – “Twitter is WFAN Now” 28:00 – Mike Francesa Story & Warming Up Dom Hamel 29:45 – Where to Follow + Final Thoughts 30:30 – PC Richard & Son Ad Read 31:15 – Goodbye, Keep the Faith
40 min
6
David Stearns on Bold Trades & Mets Deadline Se...
The Mets’ trade deadline was 🔥 — and we’ve got the inside story straight from the man who pulled the trigger. David Stearns joins Meet at the Apple to break down the Mets’ trade deadline strategy, why top prospects stayed put, and how the new-look bullpen is built for October. Then, we welcome two HUGE new additions — Ryan Helsley and Cedric Mullins — for their first Mets interviews. Helsley talks about his flamethrower mentality, pitching in high-leverage moments, and his epic Citi Field debut. Mullins opens up about joining the Mets, his legendary anime fandom, and how he plans to make an impact in Queens. This is your all-access deadline special.
49 min
7
Inside the Mets 2025 Draft: Mets VP of Amateur ...
Kris Gross, Mets VP of Amateur Scouting, joins us for a deep dive into the 2025 Draft — and no detail gets left out. From threading the bonus pool needle down to $5, to breaking down top picks like Mitch Voit, Antonio Jimenez, Peter Costello, and more, Gross offers unmatched insight into how the Mets build their farm system. We cover: The philosophy behind the 2025 Draft Why NIL has changed the draft game Scouting stories from Houston to New York Prospects to watch from the 2024 and 2025 classes Plus, food in Port St. Lucie, the Cape Cod League, and the role Steve Cohen’s support plays in building a powerhouse pipeline. 🔔 Subscribe for more behind-the-scenes Mets stories and prospect breakdowns! #Mets #MLBDraft #MeetAtTheApple #MetsProspects #KrisGross #MitchVoit #AntonioJimenez
33 min
8
The Mets Are HOT: Sweep Giants, Win 7th Straigh...
The Mets are ROLLING! Vito and Jon break down a 7-game win streak, highlight key moments from the Giants sweep, and dive into bullpen dominance, young stars like Ronnie Mauricio, and Soto’s clutch bomb. Plus, WWE’s Michael Cole joins the show to talk Mets fandom, hating the Yankees, watching every game during Raw, and more.
74 min
9
Are Francisco Alvarez, Brett Baty and The Young...
The Mets sweep the Angels at Citi Field behind a massive return from Francisco Alvarez, clutch home runs from Brett Baty and Pete Alonso, and a bounce-back week from Francisco Lindor. Vito and Jon break down the vibes, the homegrown impact, and Edwin Diaz’s historic milestone. Plus, we sit down with 2025 first-round pick Mitch Voit for his first official Mets interview!
44 min
10
David Wright’s Top 5 Greatest Career Moments?!
David Wright's number is officially retired—and emotions ran high at Citi Field. In this special Meet at the Apple, presented by PC Richard & Son, Vito Calise and Jon Baron blind-rank the top 5 David Wright moments of all time, from walk-offs against Mariano Rivera to World Series home runs. Hear personal memories, behind-the-scenes stories, and reflections on how Wright impacted a generation of Mets fans and employees. The guys also recap the Mets-Reds series, discuss Sean Manaea’s return to form, Juan Soto’s near-homer, Brett Baty’s breakout at home, and David Peterson’s incredible Citi Field stat. PLUS: A hilarious tangent on baseball swing-offs, a Sesame Street night preview, and why Mr. Met needs to meet Oscar the Grouch.
55 min
11
Are Jett Williams and Brandon Sproat Must Watch...
Two of the Mets' most electric prospects join us from spring training in Port St. Lucie. First up is Jett Williams, who opens up about his 2025 goal board, aiming for 70 stolen bases, recovering from injury, and what he's learning from Juan Soto, Francisco Lindor, and Brett Baty. Then, Brandon Sproat joins us to talk about throwing to Francisco Alvarez, bouncing back from Triple-A struggles, growing the most talked-about mustache in camp, and how he's staying mentally locked in on his MLB dream. These interviews were recorded in March, but they're even more relevant now—especially with both prospects making noise in the system. If you're excited about the future of the New York Mets, this is a must-listen.
34 min
12
Juan Soto’s Fountain Blast, Sean Manaea's Retur...
The Mets take 2 of 3 in Kansas City and head into the All-Star break with momentum. Vito and Jon break down a wild series full of fireworks (literally), Juan Soto moonshots, Edwin Diaz dominance, and a massive moment for Mark Vientos. They also dive into the deepening Mets rotation, Francisco Alvarez's Triple-A tear, Jonah Tong’s Futures Game showing, and why Brandon Nimmo deserves more love. Plus, an interview with Sean Manaea taped at Spring Training rounds out the show.
50 min
13
Ronny Mauricio Interview | Is Ronny Mauricio Se...
The Mets dropped both games of a tough doubleheader, but Ronny Mauricio is heating up—and looking like a force at third base. Vito and Jon break down the highs and lows of the series, how the Mets' power-only offense is costing them wins, and why Ronny's rise is a major bright spot.
42 min
14
Carlos Mendoza Reacts To Subway Series Win
The Mets took the Subway Series by storm! Vito Calise and Jonathan Baron sit down with manager Carlos Mendoza to dive deep into the big lineup changes that sparked the offenseand break down the most electric moments of the series. Plus, what makes this team such a power threat heading into the second half, and why Mendoza has quickly earned the clubhouse’s trust.
51 min
15
Did Carlos Mendoza Work Lineup Magic Again?!
Carlos Mendoza made a key lineup change during the Brewers series — and it paid off. We break down what worked, count down the top five moments from the series, preview the upcoming Subway Series, and welcome a special guest to the show.
38 min
16
What Mets Prospects Can Be 2025 Difference Make...
In this episode, Vito and Jon go live from PC Richard & Son with a full house of Mets fans to talk through it all: the brutal injury to Griffin Canning, the status of Senga and Manaea, and why the bullpen has been running on fumes. But it’s not all doom and gloom. The guys highlight the wave of exciting prospects who could be on the brink of making a real impact.
32 min
17
Are The Mets BACK?! | Interview w/ Francisco Li...
After taking the last two from the Braves, the Mets might be back — and so is Meet at the Apple co-host Vito. Francisco Lindor joins the show to talk about the team’s turnaround, All-Star voting, and the story behind his brand-new signature shoe.
47 min
18
Vote Mets | Will Reed Garrett Be an All-Star??
Reed Garrett joins the show to talk about his strong 2025 season, shutting down the Dodgers, and secret talent for animal impressions. He breaks down his journey to the big leagues, connection with Edwin Díaz, and enthusiasm on the mound.
25 min
19
Edwin Díaz Interview | Breaks down dominance, s...
Edwin Díaz breaks down his electric strikeout of Aaron Judge in the Subway Series and opens up about his return from injury, bullpen chemistry, and friendship with Kodai Senga. He also touches on Mets rivalries, his love of horses, and thoughts on Marte’s haircut. Presented by P.C. Richard and Son.
18 min
20
How Did David Peterson Talk His Way Into a Shut...
In this Episode of Meet at the Apple, Jon sits down with David Peterson to relive his historic complete-game shutout vs the Nationals.
27 min
21
Are the Mets the Best Team in Baseball?! | Baty...
The Mets are the first MLB team to 45 wins with a clean sweep against the Nationals. We break down the series, preview the weekend at Citi Field, and hear who makes the cut for Brett Baty’s basketball starting five of Mets teammates
43 min
22
Will Pete Alonso be the FIRST MVP in Mets Histo...
Pete Alonso is closing in on Mets history and putting together an MVP-caliber season. We break down his dominant stretch, Lindor’s legacy moment, and the return of Ronny Mauricio in a wild weekend at Coors Field.You can Vote Mets FIVE TIMES EVERY DAY for the 2025 All-Star Game! ️Vote Mets here 🗳️👉 ⁠https://bit.ly/43rNDDW⁠
70 min
23
Are the Mets and Dodgers destined for an Octobe...
Jon and Hunter break down a dramatic four-game split in L.A., spotlighting Juan Soto’s energy, Pete Alonso’s power, and why this series felt like October.You can Vote Mets FIVE TIMES EVERY DAY for the 2025 All-Star Game! ️Vote Mets here 🗳️👉 ⁠https://bit.ly/43rNDDW⁠Timestamps/Ad Breaks0:00 Mets Dodgers Round 29:45 Success vs Top Teams11:35 Starting PitchingAD BREAK 1 20:00 Pete Alonso23:15 Juan Soto26:15 PC Richard Electric Moment of the Series29:00 Starling Marte31:10 Ronny Mauricio35:15 Dodgers TakeawaysAD BREAK 2 40:05 Looking Ahead to Colorado
48 min
24
Mendoza Reacts to Díaz's Dominance | 1st Place ...
Carlos Mendoza joins the show to talk leadership, lineup moves, and Edwin Díaz's control on the mound. Then we break down a successful Mets homestand, the recent power surge, and what’s ahead on the West Coast.
47 min
25
What is the Secret to David Stearns's Magic?! |...
The Mets take another series, and David Stearns keeps working magic. We talk Jared Young’s breakout moment, Lindor’s walkoff, and how the Mets front office continues to win behind the scenes. Plus, a quick look ahead to the Rockies.
46 min