When it comes to the New York Mets’ second base predicament, team legend Jose Reyes says there are no more open questions. Luisangel Acuna is the player who needs to play there every day, even if it means two-time All-Star Jeff McNeil.
The Mets were so excited about the potential of former Texas Rangers prospect Acuna that they were willing to spend the remainder of Max Scherzer’s massive deal to bring him back in that trade two years ago. That assessment proved true, as the infielder has demonstrated his ability to make an impact since being called up late last year. One that Mets great Reyes believes should start at second base instead of past batting champion McNeil.
“Based on everything I’ve seen from him since last year, I believe he belongs in the major leagues and should play every day. Based on everything I’ve seen so far this season, he should play second base every day. They also need to find a position where McNeil can receive at-bats every day. Center field. Perhaps try third base. DH, but Acuna deserves to be in the starting lineup every day because he is so good. He has incredible base running skills and can also hit.
McNeil missed all of spring training due to an oblique issue. However, he was expected to start at second base upon his return, having been the undisputed starter for much of his eight-year career in New York City. In addition, the organization provided numerous opportunities for highly rated prospect Brett Baty to win the starting job in recent months.
However, the brother of Atlanta Braves sensation Ronald Acuna has excelled in his first full season. He has a slash line of.301/.351/.455/.806. He has also played good defense and performed admirably on the bases. Posted eight steals in the opening month of the season.
Jose Reyes says the New York Mets need to give Brett Baty more at-bats.
Along with being asked about who should be the full-time starter at second base, Reyes was questioned by the “Baseball Night in NY” hosts about what the team should do with Brett Baty. The long-time top prospect has received many chances over the last four seasons. However, he was demoted again in April.
Following an injury to Jesse Winker, the infielder has been recalled again. So he can try and prove one more time that he can be a mainstay on the big league roster. Reyes, who starred for New York over 12 legendary seasons, believes the only way to see if Baty is a failed prospect or not is to have as many at-bats as possible.
“I don’t want to say that’s who he is [a player who bounces between the majors and minors].” He needs at-bats. He requires more at-bats to determine what he possesses. I believe he was doing much better before he went down. But I’m not sure how much he plays each day because Acuna is performing so well. Maybe he can play DH and get some at-bats, and we’ll see what we have. I know it will be up and down for him unless he turns things around this time.”
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