CLEVELAND — Mark Vientos got a chance Tuesday to prove he’s more than just a part-time hitter against left-handed pitchers.
With Brett Batty struggling at the plate, manager Carlos Mendoza gave Vientos the starting role at third base. Mendoza cited the fact that Guardians starting pitcher Xavion Curry had a reverse split and was stronger against left-handed hitters.
Vientos responded to the Mets’ 7-6 loss at Progressive Field with a 2-for-4 performance, including a home run.
“Everything starts with a routine and a plan. We feel like we’ve done a good job talking about our approach and plan here. And then saying it out loud and doing it outside. I feel it,” Vientos said.
Batey entered the day batting .180/.255/.320 with two home runs and six RBIs in May. He had struck out in 42 percent of his at-bats, including three times in Monday’s loss.
“[Monday] He’s missed pitches down the stretch and he’s chased them when he’s slow in the count,” Mendoza said. “I thought he had a better day on Sunday, but right now it’s one of those days where he’s struggling, but I like where he’s mentally and he’s putting in the work.”
Batty’s ability to block out offensive troubles and keep them from affecting the rest of the game bodes well for Mendoza.
“He separates offense and defense, and he still brings that, and there’s a lot to like about him, his demeanor in the dugout, his energy,” Mendoza said.
Vientos was recalled from Triple-A Syracuse last week and showed signs of life at the plate during a weekend series at Miami. He hasn’t made an error since being recalled.
Mendoza said Kodai Senga played catch and rescheduled Friday’s bullpen session. The right-handed pitcher sat out of the bullpen Sunday due to triceps soreness. Chiga has been delayed in starting his rehab assignment in the minor leagues as he works on his mechanical adjustments.
Drew Smith has been pitching in the bullpen and will be evaluated for a minor league rehab assignment.
Jeff McNeil, who has two hits and one home run in four at-bats, has an .812 OPS on the road this season. McNeil’s OPS at Citi Field was .449.
