One of the Mets' top prospects has been learning a new position before the London series against the Phillies.
The 24-year-old infielder has only hit .225/.304/.325 this season with just seven extra-base hits, but provided an encouraging sign by hitting a pair of home runs in his first two games in Triple-A. The bigger development, though, is the plan to give Baty reps at second base - something he has been excited about.
"I love defensive versatility. I’ve always loved it," Baty said. "I played a lot of different positions in high school and I love moving around the field, it’s cool. It’s just like a different game from other points of view so any way I can help the team."Although Baty will likely be returned to Syracuse after the series, regardless if he plays or not, the decision to start using him at second may factor heavily into both his development and the Mets' future plans.
The decision to start giving Baty reps at second base could also be an ominous sign for Jeff McNeil. Despite his reputation as a former All-Star and MLB batting champion,and didn't get a single at-bat in the Mets' three-game sweep over the Washington Nationals. A .227/.296/.320 slash line certainly doesn't do him any favors, especially when Baty has the advantage of youth on his side.
Time will tell whether Baty can develop into a second baseman, as learning a new position certainly comes with challenges. But with Vientos thriving at third and McNeil struggling at second, this could be the opportunity that Baty needs to break into the big leagues for good.Joe Najarian is a Rutgers University graduate from the Class of 2022.
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