Mets Legend Howard Johnson (HoJo): ‘The Pressure of Being a Target’

As the 2025 season approaches, New York Mets legend Howard “HoJo” Johnson is closely watching the team’s preparations, offering both optimism and caution. The Mets, coming off a solid season, are looking to make a deeper playoff run, and with the addition of star slugger Juan Soto, expectations are high. But HoJo, known for his tenure as a key contributor to the Mets during their late '80s success, has a few concerns and pieces of advice for the team heading into the new season.

Health and Contributions from All 25 Players

The former Mets infielder doesn’t mince words when discussing the importance of health for the team’s success in 2025. “Soto is a great player, obviously, but our pitching and position players must stay healthy,” he says, emphasizing that injuries can derail any team’s season. For the Mets, staying at full strength will be critical, especially in a division as competitive as the NL East.

But it’s not just about staying healthy. HoJo points out that each player on the roster must contribute if the team is going to reach its full potential. “All 25 players on that roster have to contribute,” he stresses. The depth of the roster will be tested, and it’s not just about relying on the stars; everyone from the bench players to the starting rotation must step up when needed.

Expectations for Young Players Like Beaty

HoJo is particularly optimistic about some of the Mets’ younger talent. A name that stands out for him is Michael Beaty, a player HoJo believes can have a significant impact. “He’s a great talent, a good kid, and he understands his role, which will greatly help,” he says. Beaty has the potential to be an important contributor for the Mets in 2025, but HoJo knows that expectations come with pressure, particularly when a player is asked to step into key roles.

Maintaining the ‘Edge’ that Fueled 2024 Success

While the addition of Juan Soto provides a massive boost to the lineup, HoJo is wary of complacency. The Mets had an intense, competitive edge that drove their success in the previous season.

“That edge fueled them into the season they had last year,” he notes. However, he warns that with the addition of a superstar like Soto, there is a risk the team could become too relaxed. “I’d hope they don’t become too relaxed,” he cautions.

HoJo is adamant that maintaining that hunger and urgency is paramount. “I can tell you with 100 percent certainty that something’s going to happen this upcoming season. If they don’t have that edge, they’ll be in trouble.” The veteran believes the Mets’ competitive fire will be the difference-maker between success and failure. The team needs to prove that the addition of a star doesn’t change their mentality and that they remain as hungry as ever for a championship.

Carlos Mendoza’s Leadership

HoJo’s thoughts on the Mets’ managerial leadership are positive, particularly regarding new manager Carlos Mendoza. “I think Carlos Mendoza does a good job managing the ball club,” he says. Mendoza, a first-time manager, has a tough task ahead of him in guiding a team with high expectations, but HoJo believes Mendoza’s understanding of the game will serve him well.

One of the key insights HoJo shares is that having the most talented team doesn’t always translate into success. “Having the best team doesn’t always translate,” he says. The little things, the details, and the ability to make in-game adjustments will be what separates the great teams from the good ones. Mendoza will need to ensure the Mets stay sharp and execute on all levels, from pitching to fielding to hitting.

The Pressure of Being a Target

HoJo also acknowledges the pressure the Mets will face in 2025. With the addition of Soto and the team’s rising profile, they will have a target on their backs, much like the Los Angeles Dodgers do. “It’s not going to be easy; they have a target on their back,” he says, highlighting the challenges that come with being a top contender.

With that target comes heightened scrutiny, and HoJo believes the Mets must remain focused and detail-oriented to avoid falling short. “The little detail thing will be the difference maker,” he notes. That attention to detail could be the key to staying ahead of the competition and ensuring the team plays up to its potential.

HoJo’s Anticipation for 2025

As for his own involvement in the season, HoJo is excited to get back to Citi Field. He plans on attending games and being around the team, making sure to stay involved with the Mets’ fanbase. “I’ll try to get up there four or five times, but I’m looking forward to getting out there,” he says with enthusiasm. His connection to the team and the fans remains strong, and his advice will surely resonate with the players as they look to make the most of the 2025 season.

Conclusion

Howard Johnson’s insights offer a balanced perspective on the 2025 New York Mets: a team with immense talent and potential but one that must maintain its edge, stay healthy, and contribute as a collective unit. With the guidance of Carlos Mendoza and a renewed focus on the little things, the Mets could find themselves in contention for a championship. But as HoJo reminds us, nothing is guaranteed—success will require effort, discipline, and above all, that relentless drive that fueled the Mets' best seasons in the past.