The New York Mets' efforts to salvage value from their 2023 player sell-off may hinge on the potential of Ryan Clifford, a first baseman and outfielder who arrived as part of the package for Justin Verlander. Despite his powerful swing, Clifford's development has been marked by a high strikeout rate, presenting a complex picture for the team's organizational rebuild.
Clifford, 22, was selected to represent the Mets at the recent All-Star Futures Game, a nod to his significant home run power – 16 in 86 games – and a reflection of the farm system's lack of standout performers this season. However, his selection also came with a .679 OPS, indicating underlying struggles. Clifford himself expressed surprise at the honor, acknowledging the inconsistency in his performance.
The core of Clifford's challenge lies in his difficulty making consistent contact. In Triple-A Syracuse this year, he has recorded 129 strikeouts in 86 games, a 36.4 percent strikeout rate that exceeds that of every qualified major league hitter. This high rate of swings and misses has contributed to a .196 batting average. His performance hit a low point in June, with a .099 batting average and a .355 OPS over 93 plate appearances, striking out 39 times.
Clifford attributed his struggles to swing adjustments made last season that have not proven effective. He had previously altered his posture and approach, learning to stay back more rather than diving his front shoulder in, a technique he had used throughout his career. This change, inspired by advice from players like Marcus Semien, proved unsustainable.
He is now working to find a balance between his previous approach and the adjustments, aiming to rediscover a more consistent hitting method. Early July numbers, with an .816 OPS and two home runs in eight games, suggest he may be finding that middle ground. A late-season surge could potentially lead to a promotion, especially as he is eligible for the Rule 5 draft this winter.
The first baseman position has been a particular struggle for the Mets this season. As of Sunday, Mets first basemen had a collective .648 OPS, the second-worst in Major League Baseball. Players such as Jorge Polanco, Jared Young, Mark Vientos, Brett Baty, and Eric Wagaman have not provided a consistent answer at the position since Pete Alonso's departure.
Clifford's situation mirrors that of other prospects, like Jonah Tong and Jack Wenninger, who were not ready in time to significantly impact the current Mets season. Despite his current flaws, Clifford remains a key figure for the Mets as they look to extract future value from the assets acquired in last year's trades. His ability to adjust and find consistency at the plate will be crucial in determining whether he can fulfill his potential and become a significant contributor for the team.