Mets’ First Base Dilemma Resurfaces

As the offseason strategies for the Mets become clearer, a lingering concern throughout spring training was how to approach first base.

The initial outcomes were somewhat disappointing, surpassing even the lowest expectations.

Jorge Polanco was brought in on a two-year, $40 million deal with the intention of moving from center infield to first base. Unfortunately, injuries plagued him for much of the season, along with lackluster performance on the field.

Brett Batty, who was added to the lineup this spring, has been hit-or-miss both defensively and offensively. He has flashed some promise as a left-handed hitter but ended up going 0-for-10 leading into Wednesday’s game.

Meanwhile, Mark Vientos has faced significant challenges on both offense and defense, struggling to return to the power level he displayed a couple of years ago. It now seems like a distant memory.

Collectively, they rank fourth-worst in OPS at first base this season (.581), a stark contrast to Pete Alonso’s impressive OPS from the previous year (.861).

Defensive performances from this group haven’t stood out either, and according to FanGraphs, they hold the second-lowest WAR at -0.5.

Before the game against Washington at Citi Field, coach Carlos Mendoza mentioned that Batty and Vientos “handle the position well,” while noting that Vientos is solid defensively.

However, he acknowledged, “I have high expectations for him offensively.”

It’s important to remember that the lack of production affects the entire batting order, not just the first basemen.

This is particularly pronounced given the significance of the lineup, especially with Alonso previously providing a steady offensive threat.

A scout from the National League commented, “They took away his strengths and turned them into weaknesses. I think Batty can hit, but he shouldn’t be at first base.” The scout believed Batty would be more comfortable batting in the third spot, where he performed well last year, rather than struggling in a different position.

Polanco is currently dealing with a right wrist contusion and some Achilles pain, and manager David Stearns has classified his status as week-to-week, while the Mets continue to rely on Batty and Vientos.

Mendoza also mentioned that MJ Melendez could step in at first base, as might Luis Torrence in a pinch.

Ryan Clifford, ranked as the team’s fourth-best prospect by MLB Pipeline, plays first base and outfield for Triple-A Syracuse and has hit five home runs in his last nine games.

Personally, I’m not convinced a 22-year-old is the solution in the immediate future.

Moreover, the situation at first base has worsened with the absence of Francisco Lindor, who is out indefinitely with a left calf strain, further diminishing offensive capabilities.

If there’s any silver lining for the Mets, it might be that Alonso isn’t hitting consistently in Baltimore since leaving New York with a hefty five-year, $155 million contract.

Still, this doesn’t alleviate the Mets’ current challenges, leaving them little option but to stick with Batty and Vientos.