Top 5 NY Mets prospects ranked by how excited we should be for their MLB debut

4) Ryan Clifford

A shift has occurred. The 2023 Justin Verlander trade with the Houston Astros is no longer thought of as the “one for Drew Gilbert” and has morphed more into a deal that landed the Mets Ryan Clifford. It’s difficult to judge the young slugger on his 2024 performance. Time served in Brooklyn where left-handed hitters are hitting the ball against the breeze of the ocean, what he managed to accomplish at Double-A Binghamton is more indicative of what we can expect.

Clifford hit .231/.359/.457 with 18 home runs in 405 plate appearances. It was a drop from what he was doing in the Astros’ minor league system, but the increase in pitching ability he saw can explain this away.

We know of Clifford as a big-hardy slugging first baseman who can play the corner outfield as well. Prone to striking out a lot and walking a whole bunch, too, what isn’t discussed much is his age. He turned 21 last summer which’ll give him plenty of leeway to slowly inch his way closer to the majors.

Exactly how or if Clifford actually factors into the picture is largely dependent on the future at first base. Pete Alonso seems destined to bail again. Dreams of Vladimir Guerrero Jr. can somewhat spoil odds of Clifford ever being a piece for the Mets although don’t completely wash them away. A corner outfielder or regular DH role is available to him.

It’s the power that makes Clifford so noticeable. Hammering 24 home runs in 2023 and another 19 last year with more in the bank because he has escaped Brooklyn, Clifford is giving off rarified slugging prospect vibes. He is far from a complete player but with such immense home run potential, it’s impossible to not be excited about him.