The New York Mets are using the final weeks of the regular season to evaluate talent and identify key lessons, as their season has fallen far short of expectations, marked by one of the highest payrolls and loftiest ambitions in baseball. Despite remaining in last place in the NL East and facing what will be remembered as one of the franchise's most disappointing seasons, the team has shown improvement in recent games.
As the Mets approach the end of September with 10 home games remaining, players like Juan Soto are focused on finishing strong. "We're not finished yet," Soto said. "We're not done yet. Who knows what can happen?" He hopes to carry this momentum into the offseason and the following season.
Evaluating Outfield Prospects
The team is assessing its outfield. Carson Benge has emerged as a solid two-way player, improving at the plate and demonstrating a strong arm in the outfield. In left field, with Luis Robert Jr. claimed by Baltimore, the Mets have rotated through Christopher Morel, Brett Baty, and rookie Nick Morabito. Morabito recently recorded his first major league hits and RBIs off the bench.
Key questions surround player A.J. Ewing's performance. The team is evaluating whether he can recapture the form that produced an .805 OPS in his first 55 games or maintain his more recent struggles, which have seen a .494 OPS since July 11.
Soto, who is aiming to return to left field after a calf injury sidelined him last month, is looking to adapt his training regimen. He has played in 89 games this season, a significant decrease from his typical 150-game seasons.
Young Pitching Development
The Mets are scheduled to start several promising young pitchers against the Giants. Nolan McLean is set to pitch Friday, followed by left-hander Zac Thornton on Saturday and Christian Scott on Sunday. McLean has been a strong performer in the second half, posting a 1.76 ERA over his last 11 starts and is considered a candidate for NL Rookie of the Year.
Another young pitcher, Jonah Tong, is expected to get a start in Miami next week. While he has yet to achieve consistent success in the majors, Tong has pitched well in seven of his last eight starts at Triple-A Syracuse, allowing only two runs over 21 1/3 innings in his past four outings.
Relief Pitching and Hitting Concerns
Following trades of established relievers at the deadline, the Mets have seen contributions from less experienced arms like Nate Lavender, who has not allowed a run in 12 appearances. The team is also evaluating Kodai Senga's potential role as a closer, with his performance and willingness to stay in that role influencing future decisions.
The Mets also recently claimed right-hander Cameron Weston from the Orioles, optioning him to Triple-A Syracuse. Weston has made one major league appearance and spent most of this season in the minors. To make room on the 40-man roster, catcher Shawn Ross was designated for assignment.