Mets Shortstop Trade Chips: Amed Rosario vs. Andres Gimenez

Andres Gimenez

Gimenez was one of the brightest spots in a 2020 season marked by disappointment and under-achievement. The rookie burst onto the scene to the tune of a .263 average, three homers, 12 RBI, and eight steals. While these seem like much less impressive numbers compared to his counterpart, it is worth noting that the 22-year-old accomplished these feats in just 49 games and 118 at-bats. Despite being capped by a few nagging injuries and little playing time, Gimenez was able to finish seventh in NL Rookie of the Year voting.

Additionally, the young shortstop also displayed far superior defensive ability. Some top analysts have gone so far as to tout the rookie as an “elite defender.” In all his time playing the most difficult defensive positions, Gimenez had only two errors. One of these came when he was out of position at third base. In fact, his outs above average (OAA) advanced metric showed the Mets budding star as the third-best defensive shortstop in baseball, behind only Francisco Lindor and Fernando Tatis Jr.

If this latter baseline is an indication of future success, Gimenez could have a real path toward a future Gold Glove award. His defense is lightyears ahead of Rosario.

Additionally, Gimenez’s speed translated to on-field success in a way that Rosario’s has not. His eight steals in such limited action are impressive. Stretched over the course of a 162 game season, he could be a serious threat for 30+ stolen bases. The rookie felt like an electric threat every time he safely reached first base. The Mets, who have lacked a legitimate threat on the basepaths in recent seasons, could benefit greatly from this skill set.