NY Mets seem likely to use Luisangel Acuna in the role they tried to avoid last year

Before Friday’s game against the San Francisco Giants, the New York Mets predictably sent Luisangel Acuna back to the minors. Used sparingly, they made it clear (again) that he is the odd man out in their group of surplus infielders. Although he managed to survive with the team past the trade deadline, it’s becoming clearer how little faith they have that he’ll be a solution for them at any position.

Cedric Mullins replaced him on the roster, creating a ripple effect. We didn’t see the full difference with the Mets who decided to go with a righty-heavy lineup against lefty Robbie Ray.

What’s next for Acuna? It seems like he’ll be a solution in a role they tried to deny him in 2024.

Luisangel Acuna will get another chance this season, maybe even sooner than some may think

Acuna’s demotion is the second of the year. He was down for less than three weeks last time which is significant. Recalled to replace Travis Jankowski who had originally taken his roster spot and role, bringing Acuna back to the majors meant saving his final minor league option for next year. The same rules apply right now. As long as he doesn’t stay in the minors for 20 days, Acuna will retain the final minor league option. It’s both important to save for next year’s Mets team as well as anyone who may have a little more interest trading for him in the offseason.

With this in mind, Acuna is a good candidate to return to the Mets by August 20. Without a doubt, he’ll be assigned the role of speedy super utility player for the month of September.

Fans wanted Acuna called up as soon as rosters expanded last September. Instead, the Mets went with veteran journeyman Pablo Reyes who isn’t nearly as much of a threat on the bases. His time didn’t last long. The Mets DFA’d him and replaced him with Eddy Alvarez. A back injury to Francisco Lindor eventually led to Acuna getting his opportunity. He made the most of it.

Although productive enough in April to win NL Rookie of the Month, Acuna’s metrics tell us he has been more lucky than good to even have a .239 batting average. His legs remain the most obvious asset of all with his inability to hit with much authority holding him back from ever stealing too many starts. He started only 3 in July, completing just one of them.