The Mets should consider these prospects in the 2023 MLB amateur draft

Mets 2023 draft: infielder, Jake Gelof

The Mets sixth ranked prospect Mark Vientos is protected on the 40-man roster and could either be a future star corner infielder in Queens, or a predominant piece in a late season trade package. In this case, the Mets should look to replace his spot on the top 30 prospect with a third baseman. Jake Gelof would be that guy. Gelof patrols the hot corner for the University of Virginia, carrying a hot bat and extreme power from the right side. Prior to Virginia, Gelof developed out of the IMG Academy in Florida. His hot stick and heavy barrel lead him into the NCAA, where he exploded in his 2022 season, smacking 21 homeruns, driving in 81 RBIs with a .377 batting average and a .477 on-base percentage.

Gelof has a plate presence that screams aggressive, disciplined, and awareness. He knows what he wants, what he doesn’t like, and what he can take advantage of. He shows ability to adapt to pitchers and counts, while taking huge hacks and protecting the zone. His signature tool is his raw power that generates bat speed and launch ability.

Defensively, Gelof can stand the hot corner with an above average arm and good hands. He’s also able to play the opposite corner at first, and has seen time at shortstop. His offensive attributes are his main value and can be the next big bat in the Mets farm system.