As former All-Star Jeff McNeil struggles to break out of his season-long slump at second base, the New York Mets may be looking to add a promising star to help or maybe even replace McNeil. This situation is difficult for New York, but making a move would give the Mets a chance to play a future talent continuously. Whether that addition comes internally or externally is another matter.
Mets May Look to Make a Change at Second Base Amid McNeil’s Struggles
In late May, the Mets decided to send down Brett Baty as he struggled offensively. Although he is young and promising, Baty has no chance of taking back third base from Mark Vientos, who is seemingly becoming a star. Baty instead has a chance of robbing McNeil, who continues to struggle to regain his old form. Baty has been ripping it up in the minor leagues so far with three home runs and six RBI in just a few games. This might prompt New York to think about using Baty at second base.
Luisangel Acuña and Brett Baty combined for seven hits, seven RBIs, three doubles and four runs scored tonight.
Oh, the boys were BUZZING. pic.twitter.com/4hg7t79nZv
— Syracuse Mets (@SyracuseMets) June 14, 2024
However, Jose Iglesias also remains a viable option at second, as he has an average of .435 in eight games for New York. However, Iglesias is most likely New York’s utility man, much like the now-former Mets earlier this season, Zack Short and Joey Wendle. Baty presents New York with a chance to allow him to continue to grow into a better hitter. The Mets would love nothing more than a chance to allow their own prospects to make their way into the lineup and thrive.
Is Baty the Best Answer?
Baty has clearly shown defensive prowess, and he has also shown the ability to hit for power. What issues he does have seem to be on the mental side of things. While his emotions can sometimes get the best of him, determination could allow Baty to pass over his troubles. Meanwhile, McNeil’s struggles at the plate only continue for New York. The typical game McNeil has had this season has been an ugly sight for New York. Consistently going 0-for-4 or 1-for-4, or even 0-for-5, the Mets can’t help but worry about the former All-Star. It is a far cry from McNeil’s 2022 performance, when he led the majors with a .326 batting average. He now sits a full century mark lower at .226.
Even in double-digit games against a hopeless pitcher, McNeil cannot seem to pitch in. He regularly bats eighth or even ninth in the order for New York, showing that confidence in him is not very high from the Mets. Baty could provide the Mets with a much-needed power surge. Even though he has only four homers this year, his numbers show that he can perhaps hit 15 home runs in a year, which is a fair number for a second baseman. Earlier in the season, Baty did not hit very many home runs, but he hit for a high average, meaning he could give the Mets more than what McNeil has chipped in. Although Baty had a bad slump when he was sent down, the Mets may be willing to give him a second chance.
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