With the best record in the NL at 28-16 and a league-leading run differential of +65, it’s hard to pinpoint any glaring weaknesses on a team firing on all cylinders. Yes, we are talking about the Mets, and undoubtedly, they’re dominant. But you would also agree that even the most successful teams are never truly finished products.
There’s always room for refinement. Something the Mets are proving this season. Under the watchful eye of President of Baseball Operations David Stearns, the Mets aren’t resting on their early success. Instead, they’re actively seeking ways to improve, sharpening even the sharpest edges. What’s that? Is there any gap identified for the Mets?
Their defense. Yes, Stearns identified defense as their key weakness. “I think we can play better defense. That’s an area we can get better,” Stearns told reporters. “I think the players that we have are capable of playing better defense.“
Surely the Mets’ defense has faced a few challenges. Third baseman Mark Vientos experienced a mishap when a ball slipped through a hole in his glove’s webbing, nearly costing the team a game. On the other hand, the bullpen has shown signs of inconsistency, with relievers like Ryne Stanek and Jose Butto struggling in critical moments.
But the key name in the Mets’ struggling defense is none other than Francisco Lindor. The 4x Gold Glove Award winner has already committed six errors this season, matching half of his total from the entire 2024 season, where he had 12 errors and a .979 fielding percentage. Moreover, his current fielding percentage has dipped to .939, well below the league average for shortstops.
Hence, these errors have had tangible impacts on games. For instance, in a 6-3 loss to the Twins, Lindor’s third-inning error led to two unearned runs, shifting the game’s momentum. Similarly, during a 4-2 defeat against the Marlins, he committed two errors, contributing to the team’s loss.
Now you could also agree that Stearns has identified the key issue with the time. While the team is flying high now, a struggling defense might come back to haunt if not resolved early. However, despite the struggling defense of the Mets, one name is standing tall out of nowhere. Juan Soto. Yes, he was expected to shine on offense, but this year, we are witnessing his greatness in defense as well.
The Mets got a new face for their defense
Juan Soto’s defense has often been viewed as below average throughout his career, particularly in right field. Ironically, Soto has spent most of his time in right field. So, it was not expected from him this year to excel in defense, but Soto appears to be rewriting that narrative. His defensive improvement was on full display in the Mets’ recent win over the Phillies.
In a critical moment, Phillies outfielder Max Kepler lined what looked like a go-ahead single to right off Jose Butto. But Soto charged the ball cleanly and delivered a pinpoint throw to cut down the runner, notching his first outfield assist as a Met. Well, it was a game-changing play and a clear sign that Soto’s glove is beginning to catch up with his bat.
Now that’s something impressive and unexpected for the Mets. But what’s better than getting some defense help from the best offensive player on the team? The Subway series is about to start, and it would be interesting to watch how it goes for Soto as well as for the Mets. Well, who would not be interested in seeing how Soto performs against his old mates in the Yankees?
Once the defense improves, a successful postseason should be visible for the Mets.
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