3 NY Mets player role changes that make too much sense for 2026

3) Christian Scott in a relief role

Coming back from Tommy John surgery isn’t easy. Christian Scott should ease his way back into starting and by the time he gets to the majors, it might not be unwise to use him in a relief role.

This doesn’t have to be anything permanent, but with the way the Mets rotation is likely to shape up even while factoring injuries, there might not be so much room for Scott. The bullpen is different. They’ll undoubtedly have innings there for him and in a variety of different roles.

Scott was actually primarily used as a reliever in college so it’s not a brand new transition. His starts in the minors will be limited and because of his importance, the Mets will very likely have a limit as to how many innings he actually logs. It’s not realistic for him to end up pitching his way into the Mets rotation and actually be a suitable starter. As a midseason relief option, he seems to fit.

Already turning 27 in June, Scott is past the age of many players in his position. His 2024 injury spoiled his development and the coming season will be all about getting him right again. We have yet to see the David Stearns-led Mets turn to their young starters regularly in a relief role, a thought that many had in mind for Nolan McLean, Jonah Tong, and Brandon Sproat at times last year.

There’s always a chance not all of those youngsters are around by Opening Day with a trade being very possible. Regardless of what organization they represent, Scott seems bound for a role change and switch to the bullpen even if it’s only temporary.