3) Drafting Jett Williams
To say that the Mets have a spotty history in the draft is an understatement. Just one year removed from the public relations fiasco that was the Kumar Rocker selection, Eppler hitched his wagon to a Texas high schooler named Jett Williams with the 14th overall selection.
More than just having a badass name that will sound great on Sportscenter, Williams has proven already that he has the goods. The 19-year-old is a five-tool player, stealing 45 bases and raking 43 extra-base hits in 121 games this year, while also walking over 100 times and exhibiting the defensive versatility to play center field and shortstop.
Williams was even promoted to AA Binghamton in advance of the Rumble Ponies' playoff series against the Somerset Patriots, an impressive accomplishment for a player so young, but he has loftier goals in mind, telling SNY's Steve Gelbs that his goal is to reach the majors next year.
The Mets' farm system has been fortified greatly under Eppler and owner Steve Cohen, but even facing stiff competition from all levels of the organization, Williams still won the Mets 2023 Minor League Player of the Year award. Mets fans can't wait to see what the future brings for Williams, and they have Billy Eppler to thank.