Now more than two weeks into spring training action, there’s a better feel of who is ready for the regular season to begin and who might need a little more time. The New York Mets don’t have a whole lot of roster competition going on. Elsewhere, battles are raging and several former Mets players are performing so badly they shouldn’t even be a consideration for their club’s Opening Day rosters.
Spring training may be young but these three Mets from last year's squad are already proving they should be in the minor leagues to start 2024.
1) Eduardo Escobar
Eduardo Escobar signed a minor league deal with the Toronto Blue Jays this offseason. It’s not looking good for him. In an organization that also managed to sign Daniel Vogelbach and Joey Votto to minor league deals as well, the only advantage Escobar had going for him was the ability to play more than first base.
Unfortunately, it doesn’t look like Escobar will crack Toronto’s Opening Day roster. Escobar is 2 for 20 this spring with both of those hits coming in each of his last two games. Seeing the competition grow with more minor league signings by the Blue Jays might’ve given him the kick he needed. Of the 18 at-bats where he was retired, 9 came via strikeout. Is Escobar rusty or has he reached the twilight of his career?
Escobar’s time with the Mets ended in late June when he was traded to the Los Angeles Angels for two prospects. The Angels didn’t see enough from him to even consider picking up the 2024 option on his deal. The Blue Jays knew more of what they were getting themselves into and with third base insecure, Escobar would be wise to stick around if he has a choice in the matter.
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