Mets Experience Changes Ahead of Dodgers Series
Carlos Mendoza had intended for Mark Vientos to play in the opening game against the Dodgers on Friday. However, about an hour before the game, Vientos was scratched from the lineup due to abdominal pain, which the team described as “preventive.” Vientos, age 25, had recently taken on the designated hitter role during a three-game series in Boston.
Brett Baty stepped in for Vientos at third base, marking his fourth consecutive game. This season, Baty has been solid defensively, making only one error in 89 chances across third and second base. In contrast, Vientos has struggled, with six errors, placing him at the top in majors for his position.
“I wouldn’t say he’s pressing, but maybe he’s aware of what’s going on with Baty,” Mendoza commented. He alluded to the healthy competition between the two players, who often encourage one another. Still, there are moments when Vientos seems to be second-guessing himself, particularly on plays he usually makes without a thought.
Last season, Vientos showcased his potential, hitting 27 home runs with an OPS of .837 across 111 games. This year, however, his performance has dipped significantly. Entering Friday’s game, he was batting .232 with five home runs and an OPS of .674 in 168 at-bats, marking a troubling decline since early May.
Meanwhile, the pitching rotation for the Mets has been strong recently, showing some of the best results in the majors. This could improve further as veteran Frankie Montas is set to begin his rehabilitation assignments at High A Brooklyn this Saturday. Montas, who signed a two-year, $34 million contract during the offseason, has been sidelined since February due to lat muscle issues. He’s expected to throw two innings, approximately 30 to 35 pitches, after successfully completing live batting practice last week.
In addition, Mendoza shared that Paul Blackburn is also ramping up his recovery and will start another Triple-A rehab assignment on Tuesday. Blackburn’s performance has been decent with a 3.91 ERA in six minor league games this season.
Lastly, the Mets have decided to part ways with reliever Sean Reed Foley, who had shown promise before a shoulder injury limited his previous season. This year, however, he struggled with a daunting ERA of 8.36 over 15 games with Triple-A Syracuse.
