Carlos Mendoza confirms the end of a frequent NY Mets position battle

A frequent position battle for the New York Mets over the last few seasons is over. In 2024, the season opened with Brett Baty at third base. In 2025, it was Mark Vientos. Based on the results from last season, the Mets are planning to go back in time.

Mets skipper Carlos Mendoza confirmed what we already expected. Baty is expected to get the majority of playing time at third base next year.

A well-earned trip back up the depth chart after last year’s performance, Baty had to endure a brief demotion to rebuild trust from the coaching staff and front office. Only a slight trade candidate, his excellent growth at third base and ability to play second base as well as made him far too valuable in the eyes of a Mets team aiming for improved run prevention.

Brett Baty has improved every aspect of his game, the Mets are taking notice

In 2023, Baty was worth -4 OAA at third base. He raised it to 2 in each of the last two seasons, differentiating himself on that side of the ball from Vientos.

Second base was still a trial and error for Baty. The addition of Marcus Semien will spoil regular opportunities for him. Rating negatively at -1 OAA, he had some of the same hiccups he did early on at third base. At times he looked steady. In other moments, he was out of his element.

The offensive growth is what stood out the most for Baty. He set career highs across the board. He finally looked like a comfortable big leaguer who belongs in the everyday lineup.

It was a sour turn for Baty a year prior when Vientos passed him by leaps and bounds. Baty’s most recent year didn’t compare to what Vientos did in 2024 from an offensive standpoint. As an overall player with the defense factored in, the Mets are getting a more well-rounded player who meets their needs.

Baty ended the year exceptionally strong before an injury late sidelined him. A .291/.353/.477 slash line in the second half with 9 home runs and 20 RBI was almost forgotten about because of how hard the team fell. It was in August when the pitching staff decided to take the foot off the pedal. Despite Baty and other Mets players hitting well, him putting up a .937 OPS, the Mets faltered.

Assurance at third base has been a tall task for the Mets. Baty has room to improve. Next season will be his age 26 campaign which will hopefully be the last time we ever have to ask “is he the guy?”