Mets: Best options to replace Robinson Cano at second base

Amed Rosario

Heading into the 2021 season, one of the stories Mets fans were expecting to follow was the battle for the starting Shortstop position between incumbent Amed Rosario and Andres Gimenez.

One of the bright spots of the 2020 season was Gimenez’s call up to the big leagues, and his strong showings as a hitter, and more importantly, as a fielder. At the plate, Andres hit .263 with a .333 OBP, hitting 3 homeruns and 12 RBI, a solid showing in a rookie campaign.

In addition to that, Gimenez has long been touted as a very skilled defensive prospect, and he had many chances to show off his sure glove. While he is naturally a shortstop, he also logged some innings at both second and third base. Rosario on the other hand, does not have the same defensive poise as Gimenez.

Rosario is a former top prospect and showed what a great hitter he can be during the 2019 season, where he batted .287 on the year. The Mets definitely want him in the line up going forward, but due to his issues defensively, they have explored a position change for him in the past, such as trying in out in Left Field.

However, a new option presents itself in Cano’s absence and provides the Mets with a unique opportunity for an experiment with the two. The Mets could give Rosario a try out at Second Base, while Gimenez can man shortstop, as he is the more capable of the two defensively.

This option provides the Mets the flexibility to get both men consistent at-bats in the line up, while playing to each’s defensive strengths.

The move to second for Rosario could be a smart move for him. For most infielders, Second Base is a more manageable position than compared to Shortstop. Generally speaking, it requires less range for the fielder and makes easier throw to the first baseman. Given Rosario’s limitations at Shortstop, this move could work out well for him.

Doing this would mean they wouldn’t need to remove Jeff McNeil from the outfield and would get two of their top young players in the lineup for consistent at-bats. It is definitely an option the Mets would be wise to consider.