Stearns Tackles Mets’ Infield Logjam and Outfield Uncertainties
December 5, 2023The Mets came to Music City for the winter meetings this week seeking starting pitching, but they’ve made known a desire for outfield help as well. The Mets’ president of baseball operations is optimistic about a bounce-back year for a two-time All-Star, but they need to find an outfielder who can play both corner spots and log “significant playing time” to insulate themselves.
Starling Marte was one of the most important hitters in the 2022 lineup, but the Mets need to create levels of rest within their roster. Currently, the Mets only have three outfielders on the roster: Marte, Brandon Nimmo and DJ Stewart. With the ability to play multiple positions, Jeff McNeil provides the Mets with some outfield depth, although they aren’t sure whether they view that as a solution.
This creates a crowded infield with multiple players needing time. The Mets didn’t come away with answers for some of their players last season, and they believe they have most of the right pieces in place to win, but they can’t yet project how they will all fit together.