Mets catcher Wilson Ramos, who did not play in either of the exhibition games against the Yankees over the weekend, is away from the team "dealing with a personal matter," manager Luis Rojas said on Sunday.
Rojas and GM Brodie Van Wagenen have not been providing specifics regarding players who are not participating for reasons other than baseball-related injuries.
Ramos, whose power was on display late last week during the Mets' intrasquad games, is expected to be the starting catcher, and it is unclear whether his absence over the weekend will carry over into this week and/or impact his availability to be ready for Opening Day on July 24 against the Atlanta Braves.
Prior to divulging that Ramos was away from the team, the Mets added Rene Rivera to the 40-man roster, giving him a path to seamlessly be included on the 30-man roster for Opening Day if the Mets so choose.
Rivera, who has a strong relationship with some of the pitchers expected to be on the 30-man roster, is known for his defense and rapport with the pitchers.
In addition to Ramos and Rivera, the other catching options for the Mets on the 60-man roster are Tomas Nido (another defense-first option) and Ali Sanchez, who has yet to make his big league debut.
With the DH being added to the National League this season, the need to carry three catchers is lessened. But with Nido out of minor league options, the Mets' decision could be a bit more complicated -- whether Ramos is ready to go from day one or not.