Jared Young Steps Up for Mets in Win Against Giants

SAN FRANCISCO — Jared Young wasn’t entirely sure he’d be in the Mets’ starting lineup on Sunday, but he figured it was best to approach the day as if he would. He had noticed that Brett Batty’s left thumb was giving him trouble after he attempted to dive for a ball the previous day. Although Batty was initially slated to play in the final game of the series against the Giants, Young found himself as the backup plan.

“It was like, ‘Let’s come to the game today and prepare to play,'” Young mentioned. “It’s always easier to loosen up than to tone up.”

The Mets decided to start Young in left field, allowing Batty to take a day off to recuperate. Young responded spectacularly, going 3-for-3 at the plate and playing solid defense, which helped secure a 5-2 victory for the Mets at Oracle Park. This win marked an ongoing winning streak for the team during their road trip.

One highlight came in the third inning when Young made a running catch on a line drive hit by Patrick Bailey. Then, in the fifth inning, he showcased his skills again when Gerard Encarnacion’s hit ricocheted off the left field fence. Young was quick to throw Encarnacion out, preventing him from turning a single into a double.

This game marked Young’s first career game with three hits and an outfield assist, as most of his previous major league experience has been spent as a first baseman.

Manager Carlos Mendoza praised Young, noting, “Jared has improved not only his at-bats but also his ability to play in the outfield.” He added that Young is more than just a pinch-hitter or a first baseman now, showing versatility in the outfield.

Mendoza also indicated that before Batty’s injury, his original plan had Carson Benge in left field and Batty in right. The decision to move Benge was driven by his overall experience in various outfield positions, unlike Batty, who is relatively new to the outfield after switching from an infield role.

As for Batty’s timeline, he’s expected to begin working on Tuesday.

Mendoza also mentioned Juan Soto’s situation remains unchanged; the All-Star outfielder will be re-evaluated before the Mets start their next homestand on Tuesday. Soto is dealing with a “mild” strain in his right calf, prompting the Mets to consider whether he’ll need to go on injured reserve.

The Mets managed to achieve 12 or more hits in three consecutive games, creeping closer to the franchise record of five straight games, a mark that was set in 1976 and equaled in 1990.

Luis Robert Jr. also stood out by stealing two bases, making him the first player to accomplish this feat in a game since May 4 of the prior season when he was with the White Sox.