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The New York Mets have made a big statement, locking down Pete Alonso with a two-year, $54 million contract and a player opt-out after the first year. This move, coupled with the historic acquisition of Juan Soto, solidifies a formidable middle of the lineup.
The Mets' offensive potential looks significantly brighter than last year when they ranked 7th in wRC+. But simply slotting Alonso behind Soto isn't the only solution. Let's explore a more creative and strategic lineup construction that could maximize the team's potent offensive weapons.
Crafting a more creative Mets lineup beyond Juan Soto and Pete Alonso
Mets lineup versus right-handed pitchers: | Mets lineup versus left |
|---|---|
1. Francisco Lindor, SS | 1. Francisco Lindor, SS |
2. Juan Soto, RF | 2. Juan Soto, RF |
3. Brandon Nimmo, LF | 3. Mark Vientos, 3B |
4. Pete Alonso, 1B | 4. Pete Alonso, 1B |
5. Mark Vientos, 3B | 5. Brandon Nimmo, LF |
6. Jesse Winker, DH | 6. Francisco Álvarez, C |
7. Francisco Álvarez, C | 7. Starling Marte, DH |
8. Jeff McNeil, 2B | 8. Luisangel Acuña, 2B |
9. José Sirí, CF | 9. José Sirí, CF |
The return of Alonso gives the Mets a plethora of options. Against right-handed pitching, a potential lineup could feature Francisco Lindor leading off, followed by Soto, Brandon Nimmo, Alonso, and Mark Vientos. This top-heavy approach creates an elite on-base machine at the front of the order, setting the table for the power hitters in the heart of the lineup.
Winker batting behind Vientos provides some protection and extends the lineup's potency. This configuration allows the Mets to capitalize on the combined on-base skills of Nimmo and Soto, with Alonso and Vientos poised to drive in runs.
Things get even more interesting when facing left-handed pitching. Here, the Mets can get more creative. Vientos becomes a key piece, potentially slotting into the 3-hole and alternating with Alonso depending on the pitching matchup.
Nimmo could bat fifth in this scenario, providing balance against lefties, Starling Marte, projected to platoon at DH, should see regular starts against lefties, and Francisco Alvarez deserves a more prominent spot in the order when facing them.
Finally, Luisangel Acuña, coming off a strong first impression last year, should get playing time at second base and could bat 8th against lefties, filling in for Jeff McNeil. This allows the Mets to give Acuña valuable developmental at-bats while optimizing the lineup for left-handed pitching.
The Mets' revamped roster presents a fascinating challenge for manager Carlos Mendoza. While the Soto-Alonso combination is undoubtedly powerful, exploring these alternative lineup constructions can unlock even greater offensive potential and make the Mets a dangerous offensive force in the National League.