Mark Vientos Reflects on His Journey and Upcoming Challenges

Mark Vientos finds himself in a familiar situation. And, oddly enough, he’s somewhat accustomed to it.

After an impressive breakout season last year, he now faces a uncertain offseason, a feeling he’s starting to recognize again. “I think last year was really different,” he noted. “[This year] feels a lot like the time when I had to come back and prove myself,” he shared on Friday while helping distribute turkeys to families in need at the Northern Manhattan Improvement Corporation, part of a charitable initiative through the Amazing Mets Foundation leading up to Thanksgiving.

“I’m excited,” he continued. “I enjoy proving myself and getting better. I’ve learned a lot about myself this past season, and I’m looking forward to it.”

In 2024, Vientos had a solid batting average of .266, with 27 home runs and an OPS of .837 over 111 games. However, his performance dipped in 2025, where he recorded a batting average of .233, along with 17 home runs and an OPS of .702 in 121 games.

He took on third base responsibilities, but the Mets may have been able to extend his tenure had his batting performed better toward the end of his contract.

This regression contributed to the Mets underwhelming performance last season, leaving them out of playoff contention. As a result, questions loom about Vientos’ future with the team and whether he could be traded. “We’re back at square one,” he remarked. “I’m reflecting on what went wrong last season and considering how I can improve for the team. We need to enhance our offense and defense. I’m thrilled just to have the chance to come back.”

Currently, Vientos is honing his skills at both third base and first base, similar to his approach last offseason, in case the Mets need that versatility. This need for flexibility was especially highlighted last offseason when Pete Alonso was re-signed late in the process, leaving Vientos as a potential candidate for first base.

Now, Alonso is a free agent again, and the Mets’ primary concern this winter centers on whether to re-sign him alongside closer Edwin Diaz. “Alonso is an outstanding player and an even better person. I’m eager to see what happens for him,” Vientos said.

David Stearns, the President of Baseball Operations, emphasized the need for the Mets to bolster their run prevention capabilities next season. This could mean Vientos moving away from third base in favor of Brett Batty or an outside acquisition. Alonso’s future will significantly impact whether Vientos can transition to first base, where he’s had limited experience over the last few years. He did start 39 games as a designated hitter this year, but if his batting doesn’t return to its previous form, that role might not be sustainable.

This offseason leaves Vientos with much to consider, yet he has a plan for improvement heading into 2026. “I think I’ll concentrate on my routine,” he expressed. “With a lengthy season ahead, maintaining a solid routine is vital. A dependable routine will propel us toward our goal, hopefully all the way to the World Series. Although, I do have bigger aspirations for what that routine should look like next season,” he concluded.