The New York Mets are at 10 games under .500, not only sitting in last place in the National League East but also having the worst record in all of major league baseball. This week, they have decided to call up top prospect A.J. Ewing. With the call-up of Ewing, what else could the Mets do? What does it mean for the Mets this season and in the future? It’s also safe to say that Ewing won’t be the only promotion from Triple-A Syracuse.
What A.J. Ewing’s Promotion Means for the Mets
The Mets Know They Need Production from the Offense
Let’s face it, for as bad as the Mets have been, the biggest reason has been their offense. Their pitching has been fine, and even their defense has been good. The problem is, in fact, the offense. It’s truly the only reason the Mets are in this position to begin with. They have a league-worst offense that is almost historically bad. It was unfathomable to think at the beginning of the season, but there are a few reasons for that.
Bo Bichette has slumped all year. Francisco Lindor, Jorge Polanco, and Luis Robert Jr. are all injured and are not expected back anytime soon. Even Mike Tauchman is still out with an injury. Then you have their previous crop of young talent that are simply not producing.
That would be Mark Vientos, Brett Baty, and Francisco Alvarez. Ronny Mauricio wasn’t hitting either before landing on the injured list. All previously top prospects who were supposed to be the Mets’ future have all underwhelmed. Alvarez leads the league in double plays with ten. They are currently starting Austin Slater, Andy Ibáñez, and Tyrone Taylor. Slater and Ibanez are not big league players, and Taylor is a utility outfielder. Simply put, the Mets need a spark on offense, but they also need major league-ready players. They hope Ewing can be ready right away.
Ewing Might Have More Triple-A Teammates Joining Him
Ewing might not be the only prospect who joins the big league club, and it might not be long. Ryan Clifford, whom the Mets acquired in 2023, and Nick Morabito are also producing at Triple-A Syracuse. Clifford’s strikeouts are a concern, but the power is there as he has hit seven home runs this season in Triple-A. He has a .995 OPS in May. If he continues to hit, expect the Mets to bring him up and insert him into the lineup at first base or at designated hitter.
Morabito has 32 hits, 13 stolen bases, and an .803 OPS in Triple-A. He’s another one that could be added to the outfield depth and could add more speed to a team that just isn’t stealing bases. His high contact rate is also a notable factor for the Mets. Especially considering how low their contact rate is.
The Mets Know That Time Is Running Out
The Mets are 15-25 through 40 games. They have 122 games and the next five months to turn this around. Plenty of time in theory, yes, but for the Mets at the state they are in, they need to win games now. They know that it’s getting late fast in the game. The Mets have to turn this around, but they don’t have many cards left to play. Calling up Ewing was one of the cards they did have left. There’s a sense of urgency with the Mets with this move, but it needs to show on the field.
Main Photo Credits: Sam Navarro-Imagn Images
