LOS ANGELES — Mets Manager Encourages Bold Approach

As the Mets seek to boost their offense, manager Bo Bichette is urging his players to adopt a more aggressive strategy at the plate.

“Sometimes, as hitters, we get too caught up in trying to maintain a perfect approach and looking good,” Bichette shared in a conversation on Tuesday. “There are moments, though, when you need to take risks, even if it means looking a bit unrefined, all for the potential payoff of hitting really well.”

The team’s offensive struggles were evident as they went scoreless for 20 consecutive innings until Francisco Lindor hit a lead-off home run against the Dodgers, resulting in a 2-1 defeat.

Bichette, who had one hit in four at-bats during that game, elaborated on the idea of players needing to “get a little dirty” in their at-bats.

“It’s really a mindset,” he explained. “You can choose to be overly cautious and try to look smart, or you can embrace the competition. Ultimately, it comes down to making that choice.”

Following a slow start to the season, Bichette has shown some improvement, though he went hitless in the two recent games prior to hitting on Tuesday. With an OPS of .727 at the beginning of April, he expressed confidence: “You have to believe in yourself and your team. We have a lot of talent here. Losing isn’t easy, and sure, people are frustrated, but we know our capabilities. It’s really about altering our mindset.”

Recently, pitcher Joey Garber was placed on the disabled list due to a blister on his finger, just a day after making a solid debut with two scoreless innings. In his place, the Mets have recalled Austin Warren from Triple-A Syracuse.

Meanwhile, Jared Young is dealing with discomfort in his left knee and may face a stint on the disabled list. Manager Carlos Mendoza mentioned that they are waiting for the MRI results, highlighting Young’s role as a left-handed bat alongside Mark Vientos.

Team owner Steve Cohen returned to the field during batting practice for the second consecutive day after visiting Southern California. He was seen hugging Lindor and interacting with various players and staff members. Coincidentally, Cohen had met with agent Scott Boras, who frequently appears at Dodger Stadium, the day before.

Despite the ongoing slump, Manager Mendoza has no intention of moving Lindor from the leadoff position. Additionally, Francisco Alvarez has been promoted to the fifth spot in the lineup, while Mark Vientos, amidst his struggles, has been dropped to seventh.