3 Mets players we should lower the bar for in 2023

Previously on Rising Apple, we raised the bar for a couple of members of the New York Mets roster. Things have changed since then. The roster outlook is a bit different at the moment.

Nonetheless, there are certain players returning from last year whose hypothetical bar should be moved. After raising the bar for some, we’re going to courteously lower it for three more.

This, by no means, allows them to cruise through the 2023 season. Each can contribute in a major way. There just might not be as much pressure as previously believed.

1) The NY Mets will have a better backup plan for Eduardo Escobar this year

Eduardo Escobar’s role with the Mets is going to change in 2023. Even without Carlos Correa joining the ball club, there’s Brett Baty to take on some innings at third base. Escobar should see significant time at the hot corner while also getting some playing time as the right-handed DH alongside Daniel Vogelbach. He’ll need to hit well for the latter.

Escobar took until late in the season to begin hitting. When he did find his stroke in the final month of the season, it was enough for him to win the National League Player of the Month.

Many believed Escobar could challenge for 30 home runs last season. He ended up with only 20. Eight of them came in September and October. It was a long, grueling year for him with batting averages of .220 or lower in every month of the season except the first and last.

In a more limited role, Escobar could thrive. We’ll lower the bar for him anyway. We’ll be thrilled with any sort of consistent production he can deliver.