The Mets are getting ready for a potential future without Pete Alonso, and have reportedly told their young infielders to prepare.
The Post’s Joel Sherman is reporting that the Mets told Mark Vientos and Brett Baty to start working out at first base early in the new year. Vientos reportedly met with manager Carlos Mendoza and infield coach Mike Sarbaugh who gave him infield drills to work on at first and third base. The young slugger has done so in South Florida and even worked out with Luis Rivera, the Mets’ Single-A manager.
Baty was instructed to work at first, second and third base, and has been doing so in his home state of Texas.
SNY MLB Insider Andy Martino reported after the Jesse Winker signing that the Mets are operating with the expectation that Alonso will sign elsewhere. Martino also noted that the Mets’ most likely infield configuration will emphasize youth and versatility. Per Martino, New York sees Vientos as best suited to play first if Alonso does not re-sign with the Mets, while Baty, Ronny Mauricio and Luisangel Acuña are other potential internal infield options.
With that in mind, it makes sense for the team to have its young infielders prepare to play first while the organization awaits Alonso’s decision. Pitchers and catchers are scheduled to meet Feb. 12 with full squad workouts beginning Feb. 17.
Since the Winker signing, the Mets also added A.J. Minter to their bullpen, an area of need that Martino reported the team was looking into.
Currently, shortstop Francisco Lindor is the only Mets infielder to know where he’s playing in 2025. Of course, Vientos’ ascension last season means his place on the Opening Day roster is all but assured, but the 25-year-old was playing third base for most of the year. Vientos does have experience at first base at the major league level, playing 14 career games — four in 2024 — at that position.
Baty, whose natural position is at third, has not played at first base in the majors or minors.
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