Mets Show Signs of Hope Amid Struggles
Any season where the Mets are running out of hope before the All-Star Game should probably be tossed aside. Yet, there are glimmers of potential in that not-so-great situation—pieces that might be salvaged for a brighter future.
Perhaps the Mets have discovered a valuable combination in AJ Ewing, who might be their go-to leadoff hitter and center fielder for the next several years. There’s also promising rookie Carson Benge, who seems to be growing stronger with each at-bat. Additionally, the duo of Ewing and Benji could prove crucial as they work alongside Christian Scott, who has bounced back from surgery and reestablished himself in the Mets’ rotation.
The trio made quite an impression during a 6-2 victory over the Royals. This game saw the Mets putting together a notable performance, scoring five and then eight runs, all with two outs. Jared Young’s grand slam, along with contributions from Brett Batty and Francisco Alvarez, helped secure just their second win in nine games at Citi Field.
Ewing showcased his skills in the first inning, getting on base as the leadoff batter. He redirected a fastball for 420 feet, marking the only run until the Mets struck again in the eighth inning when he hit a double. Notably, Ewing had already hit three home runs in just four games, a significant change from last season where he only managed three in 124 games.
“I feel very comfortable in the box now,” the 21-year-old said, having hit seven home runs over 53 games. Interim manager Andy Green noted that Ewing’s game continues to evolve, reflecting positively on his role in player development.
Another standout was 23-year-old Benji, who achieved his third consecutive multi-hit game. His OPS rose from .525 to .737 in just a few months. His most memorable moment came in the eighth inning, where he turned a challenging 1-2 count into a lengthy 10-pitch walk that extended a rally.
Ewing’s other teammate on the field, Juan Soto, is signed on until 2039, contributing to the growing stability of the Mets’ lineup.
“We have a dynamic outfield with young talent playing alongside some of the best hitters in the game,” Green remarked. The team’s efforts seem to have been bolstered by various scouts and coaches, guiding these young players forward.
Meanwhile, Christian Scott appears to have been sidelined in conversations about the team’s future rotation, overshadowed by Nolan McLean, Brandon Sproat, and Jonah Tong. While McLean is anticipated to step up, Sproat is in Milwaukee, and Tong is at Triple-A Syracuse. Scott, fully recovered from Tommy John surgery in 2024, is making a case for his place. He pitched five scoreless innings against the Royals, allowing only three hits and lowering his ERA to 3.10 over 12 starts.
Despite his effective night, Green reminded Scott that he has more to give. “Great game. 90 pitches, five scoreless innings,” Green acknowledged, but he added, “He’s better than that.” Scott’s struggle to secure outs showcased areas for improvement, including the need to maintain control even when under pressure.
Coach Green emphasized that Scott needs to learn how to assert dominance on the mound. Scott himself acknowledged, “There’s always something to improve on,” recognizing that he hasn’t yet pitched six innings this season and aims to deepen his game.
