If you’re checking the probable pitchers list for a Mets game this afternoon, I have some news that might be a little annoying: nobody is taking the mound at Citi Field today. It is January 17, 2026. The only thing hitting the dirt in Queens right now is probably some light snow or a very cold rain.
We are deep in the "Hot Stove" season.
While there isn’t a box score to refresh, the question of who pitching for Mets today is actually more interesting than usual because the roster is currently a construction site. David Stearns is basically playing a high-stakes game of Tetris with the rotation. If you were looking for a game to watch, you'll have to wait until February 21, when the Mets open Spring Training against the Marlins at Clover Park.
The Current State of the 2026 Rotation
Since there isn't a live game, the "pitching today" conversation is really about who is actually on the depth chart after a wild winter. The Mets have been busy. Like, "Steve Cohen just spent $126 million on Bo Bichette in 24 hours" busy. But while the infield is getting a massive facelift, the starting rotation still has some giant question marks.
Right now, if the season started this morning, your rotation would likely look something like this:
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- Kodai Senga: The undisputed ace, assuming the "ghost fork" is ghosting opponents and not his own physical health.
- Sean Manaea: He’s currently the subject of intense trade rumors, but as of this second, he's still a Met.
- Luke Weaver: A fresh face in the rotation mix after signing a two-year deal back in December.
- David Peterson: Just signed to avoid arbitration a few days ago.
- Tylor Megill / Christian Scott: These guys are fighting for those back-end spots, with Scott coming off that elbow surgery recovery.
It’s a group with a high ceiling but a floor that feels a bit like thin ice. Honestly, it’s a typical Mets rotation. You've got brilliance mixed with "please stay healthy" prayers.
Who Pitching for Mets Today: Breaking Down the Depth Chart
When people ask who pitching for Mets today, they’re usually looking for the starter. In the middle of January, the "starter" is whoever David Stearns hasn't traded yet.
The biggest news today, January 17, is actually about who isn't here anymore and who might be coming. The Mets just missed out on Kyle Tucker (who went to the Dodgers), which forced them to pivot to Bo Bichette. But that move was about bats. The arms are still being debated in the front office.
The Sean Manaea Situation
Heavy Sports and other outlets are reporting today that Manaea is "definitely available" in trades. It sounds weird to trade a guy who was so vital to the 2025 run, but the Mets are looking for younger, more controllable arms. If you're looking for a name to watch, watch his. He might be pitching for a different team by the time Spring Training starts.
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The Griffin Canning Rumors
There is a lot of chatter today about the Mets being interested in bringing back Griffin Canning. He was a bargain last year until that brutal Achilles tear in May. If the Mets sign him, he won't be "pitching today," but he’ll be a massive part of the conversation for the #4 or #5 spot in April.
Spring Training is Closer Than You Think
If you're itching for real baseball, mark your calendar for February 11. That’s when pitchers and catchers report to Port St. Lucie. The first full squad workout is February 16.
Here is what that early Spring Training schedule looks like:
- Feb 21: vs. Miami Marlins (Clover Park) - This is the real answer to when the next Mets pitcher takes the mound.
- Feb 22: @ NY Yankees (George M. Steinbrenner Field) - The first look at the 2026 subway series vibes.
- Feb 23: @ Toronto Blue Jays.
Why the 2026 Rotation is Different
The 2026 Mets feel different because the "organizational pillars" are mostly gone. Pete Alonso is in Baltimore. Brandon Nimmo is gone. Jeff McNeil is out.
The pitching staff is trying to find a new identity. Kodai Senga is the bridge between the old era and whatever this new Stearns-led era is. Behind him, it's a lot of "prove it" deals. Luke Weaver is a perfect example. He’s been a journeyman who found a second life, and now the Mets are betting $20+ million that he can be a legitimate mid-rotation staple.
What to Watch for This Week
Since there are no games, the "pitching" news will come from the transaction wire. Keep an eye on the Cody Bellinger sweepstakes. While he’s an outfielder, signing him would likely trigger a trade involving a pitcher or a prospect for a pitcher.
The Mets have an "infield glut" right now. With Lindor, Semien, Bichette, and Polanco, someone like Mark Vientos or Brett Baty becomes trade bait. David Stearns is famous for "trading from a position of strength," so expect one of those young bats to be flipped for a frontline starter before the month is out.
Actionable Steps for Mets Fans Today
If you were looking for a game, I’m sorry to be the bearer of bad news. But you can still get your Mets fix:
- Check the Spring Training Ticket Map: Tickets for the February 21 opener against the Marlins are already hovering around $73.
- Follow the Trade Wire: The Manaea rumors are real. If he moves, the Mets' rotation order changes instantly.
- Watch Senga’s Bullpen Progress: His health is the single most important factor for the 2026 season. If he isn't 100% by February 11, the Mets are in trouble.
There’s no game today. But the roster moves happening right now will decide if we're actually cheering in October or just checking the draft order by August.
Stay tuned to the transaction logs. The next "Mets pitcher" might not even be on the team yet.