Vientos Reflects on Mets’ Past Season and Future

Mark Vientos feels that the pressure to perform was overwhelming for the Mets last season, particularly after their disappointing finish. He pointed out that this expectation can create a lot of noise, making the game less enjoyable. “I think we felt that we had to win, and perhaps we put too much pressure on ourselves,” he remarked on Monday.

The Mets had started strong, boasting the best record in the league by mid-June, but then they fell apart, finishing 21-32 in the last two months and missing the playoffs by just one game.

That chapter is closed now. Vientos, who had a breakout year in 2024 but underperformed last season, is determined to avoid repeating those mistakes. His stats were not impressive: a slash line of .233/.289/.413, along with 17 home runs and 61 RBIs. While he had a good stretch in August, most of the year was frustrating, leading to him losing his starting position. At 26, his future with the team feels uncertain.

“We just weren’t consistent across the board,” he explained. “It really starts with routines before the games. We struggled with that all season, and it showed.” Vientos feels that a lack of routine impacted consistency and overall performance.

This spring training will be different for him, especially with the team recently bringing in Jorge Polanco and Bo Bichette for the corner infield positions, leaving Vientos without a solidified spot. He’ll likely see some playing time at first base and could serve as a part-time designated hitter, in addition to fielding ground balls at third base.

Vientos acknowledged a change in team dynamics this year with the departures of notable players like Pete Alonso and Brandon Nimmo. Still, he finds camaraderie in familiar faces like Brett Butty, Francisco Alvarez, and Ronny Mauricio, which he appreciates amidst the changes.