Who Will Claim the New York Mets' Third Base Job? A Battle Brewing in Spring Training!

The New York Mets are preparing for one of the most intriguing spring training competitions in recent memory: the battle for the starting third base job. Following the departure of key players and a shuffle in the roster, the Mets have declared third base an open battlefield, with several young talents ready to stake their claim.

As we look to spring training, three players stand out as the main contenders: Brett Baty, Ronnie Mauricio, and Luisangel Acuña. Each brings something unique to the table, but only one can claim the starting role—if the Mets’ plan unfolds as advertised. Let’s break down the field and assess who has the edge heading into camp.

Brett Baty: The Favorite on Paper

Of the trio, Brett Baty, a former top prospect, seems the most seasoned. With the most major league experience of the three, Baty is entering spring training as the favorite to seize the role. The 24-year-old slashed .229/.306/.327 in 50 games at the big-league level last season—a pedestrian line but one that belied flashes of promise. Notably, Baty improved his walk rate (9.4%) and cut his strikeout rate (24.6%) compared to previous showings.

Defensively, Baty has shown he can be an above-average third baseman, with room to grow. However, his offensive potential remains the great unknown. After a torrid 16-game stretch to kick off last season in which he hit .316, Baty cooled off significantly. This spring, he’ll need to show he can sustain production under the bright lights while competing with his younger teammates.

Ronnie Mauricio: The Five-Tool Wild Card

If potential and athleticism decided everything, Ronnie Mauricio would already have the job locked down. The 23-year-old boasts elite physical tools, including unique power and speed. Mauricio’s 2023 season—a combined 25 home runs and 31 stolen bases between Triple-A and the majors—proved he could back up his hype with results. However, questions about his plate discipline and adjustment to a new position (third base) linger.

Mauricio’s injury history, particularly a torn ACL that sidelined him for much of last year, could also complicate his candidacy. The team may prefer to give him everyday at-bats in Triple-A Syracuse to regain rhythm and confidence early in the season. But of the three contenders, Mauricio arguably possesses the highest ceiling. If he can iron out his defensive kinks and refine his plate approach, he could be primed for a breakout later in the season.

Luisangel Acuña: The Surprise Candidate

While he’s the youngest and least experienced of the trio, Luisangel Acuña, 21, enters camp riding a wave of momentum. After thriving in winter ball (.337/.419/.495 in 31 games), Acuña has put himself squarely in the conversation. His brief major league stint at the end of 2023 was equally electric. Can Acuña’s confidence and versatility give him an unexpected edge?

Defensively, he’s probably the best option among the three. A natural shortstop, Acuña projects as an elite infield defender capable of manning multiple positions. Offensively, the question is whether Acuña can replicate his winter-league success against big-league pitching. If he shows improved discipline and contact ability in spring, the Mets may decide his speed and defense make him the best fit for start-of-the-season action.

The Dark Horse: Jared Young

Outside the main trio, keep an eye on Jared Young, the 29-year-old offseason signing from the Cubs. While he’s unlikely to be the long-term answer, Young slashed an impressive .310/.417/.577 in Triple-A last season and offers versatility at both corner infield spots. If none of the young competitors seizes the role, Young’s experience and steady production could make him a short-term solution.

How It Could Shake Out

The Mets have options, and they’ll likely use the early part of the season to discern who fits best. Expect Baty and Acuña to form a left-right platoon to start the season, with Mauricio playing daily in Syracuse to continue his development. Should either big-league option falter, Mauricio will be the first name called for a midseason shakeup.

Ultimately, consistent offensive production may decide the winner. Who can give the Mets both steady run production and solid defense at the hot corner? All three candidates bring tantalizing potential, but the pressure is on to translate promise into results.

Spring training is sure to provide ample drama for fans. With so much at stake—both for the players fighting for their careers and the Mets staking their future on young talent—the battle for third base in 2024 may steal the show in Port St. Lucie.