Mets manager Carlos Mendoza says the team is planning to start newly acquired Freddy Peralta on the mound for New York's March 26 season opener against the the Pittsburgh Pirates.

The Mets’ highest-profile pitching acquisition this offseason will get the ball on Opening Day. Freddy Peralta, who was set for his Mets debut Friday in an exhibition game, is lined up to pitch the team’s season opener on March 26 at Citi Field,

New York Mets starting pitcher Freddy Peralta speaks on getting the nod for Opening Day matchup vs. Pittsburgh Pirates

Carlos Mendoza officially announced Freddy Peralta as the Mets’ Opening Day starter earlier today. The skipper said it was “pretty clear” Peralta would be pitching at the front of the team’s rotation when he was acquired this offseason,

New ace Freddy Peralta takes the mound for his Mets debut, facing electric rookie Paul Skenes in a must-see Opening Day showdown.