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NY Mets dream starting lineup for the 2022 season

By Zachary Rotman

Aug 2, 2021; Miami, Florida, USA; detailed view of the cap and glove of New York Mets shortstop Javier Baez (not pictured) in the dugout prior to the game against the Miami Marlins at loanDepot park. Mandatory Credit: Jasen Vinlove-USA TODAY Sports
Aug 2, 2021; Miami, Florida, USA; detailed view of the cap and glove of New York Mets shortstop Javier Baez (not pictured) in the dugout prior to the game against the Miami Marlins at loanDepot park. Mandatory Credit: Jasen Vinlove-USA TODAY Sports /
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Sep 25, 2021; Cincinnati, Ohio, USA; Cincinnati Reds right fielder Nick Castellanos (2) hits a solo home run to win the game against the Washington Nationals in the ninth inning at Great American Ball Park. Mandatory Credit: Katie Stratman-USA TODAY Sports
Sep 25, 2021; Cincinnati, Ohio, USA; Cincinnati Reds right fielder Nick Castellanos (2) hits a solo home run to win the game against the Washington Nationals in the ninth inning at Great American Ball Park. Mandatory Credit: Katie Stratman-USA TODAY Sports /

Nicholas Castellanos – RF

One of the big free agent moves I’d love the Mets to make would be bringing in Nick Castellanos. This move would only be possible if Castellanos opts out of the remaining two years $32 million dollars of his contract. After the season he just had, I’d say that’s very likely.

Castellanos slashed .309/.362/.576 with 34 home runs and 100 RBI. He was an all-star and one of the best hitters in the National League.

Castellanos has always been a really good hitter but this season he had his best year. The 34 home runs were a career-high as well as his .362 OBP.

Castellanos would be a second right-handed power bat to stick right in the middle of this Mets lineup. Having a player with Castellanos’ ability hitting fifth lengthens this lineup so much.

With Castellanos’ elite bat, there are definitely some issues defensively. He posted a -7 DRS this season playing in the outfield for the Reds. That’s definitely not good and a reason to shy away from him.

However, I think the bat is just too good to pass up on. He will be expensive but not as expensive as a complete player would be. I believe he’d add more offensively than he’d take away defensively.

Once the DH comes to the National League, the Mets can simply plug him in that role where he’d thrive.

Castellanos would not come cheap but I believe he’s more than worth the hefty paycheck. He’s one of the best bats available and is a great fit for this Mets team.

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