The latest Mets prospect promotions confirm this team will operate differently

A common complaint fans were correct to have in recent years with the New York Mets was how much the top prospects were held back. It’s only mid-May and already we’ve seen them quickly promote Christian Scott despite not having the absolute need to do so. They could’ve easily given those starts to Joey Lucchesi.

That’s what Billy Eppler would’ve done. Not David Stearns. The kid was chosen and so far it has looked like the correct decision.

Meanwhile, a little further down the pipeline, the Mets are wasting little time. On Sunday they promoted pitcher Brandon Sproat and first baseman Ryan Clifford to Double-A.

The Mets aren’t wasting any time with these two prospects

Sproat is now only 25.1 innings into his professional career and looks more than ready for the next step. At 2-1 with a 1.07 ERA, he has been utterly dominant in Brooklyn. He has struggled at times with his command, walking batters at a rate of 5.7 per 9. With hits coming against him at a rate of just 4.3 per 9 and 33 strikeouts already, he has helped make up for the one department where he and so many young pitchers can struggle.

It was obvious to promote Sproat who, at 23, should already be a consideration for the rotation in mid-2025. Clifford’s numbers are a little different.

One of the two big pieces acquired at last year’s trade deadline for Justin Verlander, he batted .216/.412/.304 for the Brooklyn Cyclones in 136 plate appearances. Only one home run along the way, his amazing ability to draw walks is the number that’ll grab the most attention. His 32 walks versus 43 strikeouts is a favorable rate at any level. Hopefully the power comes around. Everyone knows it’s there.

Clifford turns 21 in late July. The timing of this promotion will have some Mets trying to connect how much this may actually have to do with Pete Alonso’s uncertain future. Clifford is one of those candidates who could eventually replace the big slugger. Splitting his time between first base, both corner outfield positions, and one start at DH for Brooklyn, he’s a bit more pliable than Alonso on defense.

Both players have a major league ETA of 2026. This sudden promotion puts 2025 more in the realm of possibility.

More of this, please. When a player is clearly ready for the majors or one step closer to it, he needs to be there. If you’re worried about confidence being ruined, the athlete was probably never going to make it anyway.