New York Mets Mike Puma David Peterson leaning on past lessons while proudly wearing Mets ‘leader’ label By Mike Puma Published Feb. 25, 2026, 7:59 p.m. ET Mets starter David Peterson watches some spring training action. Corey Sipkin for New York Post PORT ST. LUCIE — The Mets planned a team bonding event for Wednesday night, and perhaps a great sign for unity was the number of players who served as hosts.
This night of mini-golf for players and their families would be delivered by David Peterson, Juan Soto, Freddy Peralta, Francisco Lindor and Clay Holmes, according to the invitation.
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It’s the first name on that list that sparked a reminder: following this offseason of high roster turnover, Peterson is the team’s longest-tenured player. Brandon Nimmo previously held that distinction. Then, in one December swoop, the wave directly behind Nimmo — Pete Alonso, Edwin Díaz and Jeff McNeil — all departed, either through free agency or trade.
It left Peterson, who debuted in 2020 with the Mets, as the team’s senior statesman, amplifying his place within a veteran clubhouse. And Peterson proudly wears that “leader” label.
