3 Mets players who should be nervous about joining Aaron Hicks in the DFA pile

2) NY Mets infielder Eduardo Escobar could join Aaron Hicks in the DFA pile

A little heavier of a payday, Eduardo Escobar is another veteran in danger of losing his job. His salary is at $9.5 million this season. It’s pocket change for Steve Cohen.

A few factors may have Escobar lingering a little longer. Although the switch hitting infielder is batting only .215/.267/.418 and has received less playing time than Pham with 3 fewer plate appearances, Escobar is arguably a more useful defender albeit not any better. The ability to play all over the infield is something the Mets could use. Even if his bat can repeat what it did last year, a spot on the bench makes sense for Escobar.

His popularity in the clubhouse could be a more minor factor. Of course, if Escobar shows he is completely incapable of offering the team anything, it doesn’t matter if he’s class president. The Mets need to make baseball decisions and how much his teammates like him shouldn’t matter at all.

Escobar’s play has actually improved since his playing time declined. He is getting into games regularly as a pinch hitter when he doesn’t start. His batting average was .158 at the start of May and is now in a territory we can almost accept for a part-time player.

For now, Escobar’s roster spot is safe. A prolonged slump could change this.