10 bold Mets predictions for the 2023 season

5) Bold NY Mets prediction: Pete Alonso bats .290+

Let’s get back to some bold and specific predictions. For Pete Alonso, he’s going to hit .290 or better. File this in the heart over head category. Alonso’s best batting average was the .271 he hit last year. As a lifetime .261 batter, it’s outrageous to expect him to raise his batting average so much in one year.

The change in the shift rules might slightly benefit Alonso, but it’s his constant ability to improve each year that has me thinking so highly of his 2023 outlook. Alonso has cut down on his strikeout rate each season. The dimensions at Citi Field will benefit hitters a little more in 2023 and beyond. Some warning track fly balls may now become round-trippers.

6) Bold NY Mets prediction: Mark Vientos is traded for a controllable bullpen arm

Not every player is going to make it from start to finish with the Mets. Mark Vientos is one of those guys. An imperfect fit for what they’re building, it has felt like he is sure to get traded for several seasons already. In 2023, he becomes the guy they move for a controllable bullpen arm.

Vientos definitely has the ability to become a big league hitter and someone, for the cost of a controllable bullpen arm, would be wise to take a chance on him. Whether he’s a DH or starting first baseman in the league, Vientos is an intriguing power hitter a more patient team could hand at-bats to. To the Pittsburgh Pirates for David Bednar or Arizona Diamondbacks for Joe Mantiply? Let’s check back in July and who’s available.