MIAMI – Brett Baty Can’t Continue Playing After Injury
Brett Baty has determined he can’t continue playing after attempting to participate in a baseball game on Saturday.
Unless the Mets secure a playoff spot and make a deep run into October, Baty’s season—especially critical due to a right oblique injury—is likely over.
He felt discomfort during a swing late at night and was subsequently taken out of the game. So far, he hasn’t had an MRI for the oblique issue.
The emotional weight of this situation seems to be quite heavy, perhaps even more than just the physical pain.
“It hurts a lot,” Baty expressed, alluding to his disappointment. “But I’m doing my best to lift my teammates’ spirits. I’m aiming for the postseason.”
Baty indicated he had never encountered this type of oblique injury before, and he’s hesitant to predict when he might return to the field.
In light of Baty’s situation, the Mets have called up Jared Young from Triple-A Syracuse to add a left-handed bat to their bench. Meanwhile, Ronnie Mauricio is taking over at third base against the Marlins.
Baty, 25, had a respectable season with the Mets, playing in 130 games and achieving a .254/.313/.435 batting line, including 18 home runs and 50 RBIs.
Additionally, Baty has been noted as the best defensive option at third base while also showing skill in the second role.
“You have a player who has almost solidified himself in our everyday lineup,” coach Carlos Mendoza noted. “It’s a significant loss for us—whether it’s at third or second base—and in terms of both offensive and defensive contributions.”
Mauricio, who stepped in for Baty at third base on Friday, had begun his first game on August 24th.
“He’s putting in a lot of effort, and that’s commendable,” Mendoza added. “I had a conversation with him a few weeks back, reminding him that things can change quickly. He’s prepared to step up.”
Following the Mets’ 5-0 win over the Marlins, Mendoza has designated Sean Manaea as the starter for the regular season’s final game.
David Peterson is also ready to pitch on normal rest. If Manaea faces early challenges, left-handed options could be drawn in from the bullpen.
Manaea had a rough start against the Nationals last Sunday and struggled again shortly after, allowing two runs in one inning in a relief appearance against the Cubs. His September ERA sits at 7.64 over five outings.
Mendoza confirmed that the only pitcher unavailable on Saturday was Nolan McLean, who pitched against the Cubs on Thursday. Brandon Sprovato, having thrown 71 pitches on Friday, is also not available.
Jose Ciri and Richard Laveradi were both recently designated but remain in Triple-A Syracuse.
