NY Mets: Three Jeff McNeil predictions for the 2021 season

With this amount of protection in the lineup, McNeil will reach 100-RBI mark

With 162 games to play this season, this new and improved Mets team should outperform last years’ results over the course of a full season – Spring Training and all. As a result, my biggest and boldest prediction for McNeil this season is that he will hit over 100 RBIs.

Comparable to the elite hitting prowess of a DJ LeMahieu (who hit 102 RBI in 2019), McNeil has both the raw talent and lineup protection to reach this milestone once pitchers and catchers return in April.

McNeil has already established himself as a complete hitter with a career slash line of .319/.383/.454. In his last full season, he played in 133 games, had 510 ABs, 162 hits, 62 XBH, 75 RBIs, and maintained a .318 BA.

With Brandon Nimmo slated to fill the leadoff position (barring any future FA signings by the Mets front office prior to Opening Day), it’s likely McNeil will bat second for most of the season; giving him a prime opportunity to hit with runners in scoring position – and protection in the lineup all around him.

With more protection at the top of the lineup with the additions of Francisco Lindor and James McCann, plus the anticipated power at bats from Dom Smith, Pete Alonso, and Michael Conforto, McNeil’s hot bat will lead him to a 100 RBI season in the process.

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In 2021, fans should expect their Flying Squirrel to once again be a reliable source of elite hitting at the top of a loaded Mets lineup. And you can bet he will dazzle fans with another .310+ BA season, play a stellar second base, and record his first 100 RBI season.