Amazin' Daily Briefing: March 5, 2025 – Position Experiments, Rotation Battles, and Prospect Rankings

The New York Mets took the field on March 4th, 2025, against the St. Louis Cardinals in an afternoon spring training game that, while resulting in a 6-1 loss, provided plenty of storylines for fans to dissect. With opening day drawing closer, the Mets' decision-making regarding their lineup, pitching rotation, and top prospects is becoming increasingly important.

A Surprise in the Lineup: Brett Baty at Second Base?

One of the biggest takeaways from the game was the unexpected positional changes in the Mets' lineup. Manager Carlos Mendoza opted to start Brett Baty at second base and Luisangel Acuña at third base. While Acuña has predominantly played up the middle, it seems the organization is giving him some flexibility in the infield to expand his role.

Brandon Nimmo's lingering knee soreness has thrown a wrench into the team’s plans, potentially forcing a reshuffling of player positions ahead of the season. If Nimmo cannot play the outfield regularly, Jeff McNeil's versatility could be crucial. Mendoza slotted him into left field for this game, an indication that McNeil could spend significant time there if Nimmo transitions into more of a designated hitter role.

Jeff McNeil’s Struggles Continue

McNeil’s at-bats have been underwhelming throughout spring training, with his unorthodox swing adjustments continuing to raise questions. His approach has trended towards a more power-focused mindset, which may not suit his strengths as a contact hitter. Given his lackluster performance in 2024, there is growing concern about his consistency at the plate heading into this season.

Tyler Megill Falters in Rotation Battle

On the pitching side, Tyler Megill made his first start of the spring and continued to exhibit the same frustrating lack of efficiency that has plagued him in the past. Megill threw 46 pitches in just 2 2/3 innings, surrendering one earned run and striking out two batters.

While his raw stuff continues to impress scouts—with a fastball topping 98 mph—his inability to consistently find the strike zone or work efficiently through innings remains a glaring issue. If Megill hopes to lock up a rotation spot given the Mets' current injuries, he will need to show significant improvement in his command.

Bullpen Provides Stability

Despite Megill’s struggles, the Mets bullpen had a solid day. Free-agent acquisition Ryan Stanek and reliever Reed Garrett both pitched scoreless innings. Given the uncertainty surrounding the rotation, the bullpen may be heavily relied upon early in the season.

With Edwin Díaz leading the charge in the closer role and reliable arms like Garrett, Stanek, and the newly acquired A.J. Minter expected to hold down the late innings, this unit projects to be one of the team’s strengths.

Breaking Down the Mets’ Updated Top 10 Prospects

The Mets’ 2025 prospect rankings were recently released, sparking discussions about which young players could be moved in a midseason trade. The top five include:

1. Jett Williams - A potential future starting middle infielder.
2. Brandon Sproat - A power arm who may be in the mix for call-up discussions later in 2025.
3. Carson Benge - An exciting outfield prospect showing rapid improvement.
4. Luisangel Acuña - Versatile infield talent pushing for spot on the MLB roster.
5. Ryan Clifford - A strong-hitting outfield prospect with serious pop.

Some fans were surprised to see outfielder Drew Gilbert fall out of the top 10 due to his injury-marred 2024 season. However, the overall depth of the Mets' farm system remains strong, particularly in the infield and with young pitching talents like Jonah Tong.

Looking Ahead

Spring training is all about adjustments and exploration, which is exactly what the Mets are doing with their lineup and roster plans. All eyes will continue to be on Brandon Nimmo’s health, Brett Baty’s defensive versatility, and the competition for a back-end rotation spot.

As we move closer to Opening Day, the Mets must decide whether their current depth is enough or if a midseason trade for additional pitching will be necessary to keep their playoff hopes alive. If early signs are anything to judge by, expect plenty of intrigue as this roster takes shape in the coming weeks.

On This Day in Mets History