NY Mets roster battle is now about who can do the other guy's job better

Spring training battles are raging for the New York Mets, with bullpen roles and bench spots fiercely contested. While the pitching staff grapples for consistency, an intriguing infield drama unfolds, centered on a crucial bench role for a versatile infielder.

The spot, designed for a player who can seamlessly shift between positions, has become a hotbed of competition, now less about specialized skills and more about who can master the art of the "other guy's job." Now the battle seems to be around to players.

Mets infield jigsaw: who can do more?

Initially, Luisangel Acuña appeared to have the inside track for the last spot on the bench after the unfortunate injury to Nick Madrigal. His defensive versatility, highlighted by above-average fielding, coupled with speed and a contact-oriented approach, made him a strong candidate.

However, while his defensive prowess has been evident in spring training, his bat has struggled to find its rhythm. A high ground ball rate (over 50%) and a concerning whiff rate (over 30%) could raise questions about his offensive consistency.

Enter Brett Baty, a former top prospect whose MLB struggles have disillusioned many fans. After a stellar minor league career, his inability to translate that success to the big leagues led to widespread doubts about his hitting profile and defensive capabilities. But spring training has brought a dramatic resurgence.

Baty is scorching the ball, boasting a wOBA exceeding .500 and a remarkably low strikeout rate of around just 5%. This offensive outburst has forced the Mets to reconsider their infield puzzle.

Acuña's advantage lay in his defensive flexibility, but Baty's bat is demanding attention. Now, the Mets are shaking things up, pushing both players into unfamiliar territories.

In recent games, Baty has been slotted at second base, while Acuña has manned third. This strategic shift, a departure from their typical roles, suggests the Mets are seriously evaluating Baty's potential beyond his natural position.

The message appears to be clear here, the Mets are impressed with Baty's offensive resurgence and are determined to give him every opportunity to earn a roster spot. If he can demonstrate even average or above-average defensive capabilities at both second and third base, he becomes a compelling option. This experiment is a testament to the unpredictable nature of spring training.

What was once a clear path for Acuña has become a head-to-head battle, with the Mets now looking for the player who can not only excel in their primary role but also seamlessly transition into another. The coming weeks will be crucial in determining who can best adapt and secure a coveted spot on the Mets' roster, showcasing the true meaning of versatility in the process.