Rookies giving Mets’ lineup a boost: GM Billy Eppler
The New York Mets’ offseason plans hinged on the contributions they would receive from their prospects, and it seems the young hitters are starting to make an impact. General manager Billy Eppler credited rookies Francisco Alvarez, Brett Baty, and Mark Vientos with providing much-needed offense to the lineup. Alvarez, who has hit and caught well enough to earn regular playing time, has impressed the pitching staff with his defense as well. Baty was in the lineup hitting fifth, while Vientos provided some offense as the designated hitter against a right-handed pitcher. Their influence on the lineup has prompted questions about how it will affect the team’s veterans, but Eppler maintained the organization’s focus is on putting the team in the best position to win. The Mets have not ruled out keeping three catchers on the roster when Omar Narvaez returns from injury, and with Alvarez’s exceptional performance, decisions will need to be made.
FAQs:
What is the Mets’ opinion of their prospects’ performance so far this season?
The Mets’ general manager, Billy Eppler, has credited rookies Francisco Alvarez, Brett Baty, and Mark Vientos with providing much-needed offense to the team’s lineup.
Will the Mets keep three catchers on the roster?
The Mets have not made a decision about whether they will keep three catchers on the 26-man roster when Omar Narvaez comes back, but they haven’t ruled it out.
How has Francisco Alvarez performed, both offensively and defensively?
Alvarez, who has hit and caught well enough to earn regular playing time, has impressed the pitching staff with his defense. He also has eight homers so far this season.
Will the presence of the young prospects affect the Mets’ veteran players?
Eppler maintained the organization’s focus is on putting the team in the best position to win, whether that means the contributions of the young prospects or the veteran players.
GM Billy Eppler: Rookies Provide a Boost to Mets’ Roster
The New York Mets are benefitting from the youthful talents of Francisco Alvarez, Brett Baty, and Mark Vientos, who are providing much-needed offense for the team. General manager Billy Eppler credited the trio for their contributions, saying that he is happy to see the lineup catching some footing. Alvarez, in particular, has impressed with his performance on both sides of the plate, and the Mets could face some tough decisions when Omar Narvaez returns from injury. Narvaez is on a minor league rehab assignment and could return to the 26-man roster next week. Eppler said the team hasn’t decided yet whether to keep three catchers on the roster, but they haven’t ruled it out. Despite the impressive performances by the rookies, Eppler said the team still relies on its veterans and will always put the team in the best position to win.