New York Mets Send Promising Slugger Down to Minor Leagues

The New York Mets have sent this promising slugger down to the minor leagues.

Pat Ragazzo | Aug 7, 2023

Mandatory Credit: Wendell Cruz-USA TODAY Sports

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New York Mets

He's going back down.

Prior to Monday night's game, the New York Mets optioned third baseman Brett Baty to Triple-A Syracuse.

Baty, who was the Mets' No. 2 ranked prospect, overtook Eduardo Escobar for the starting third base job earlier in the season. However, he struggled mightily at the plate, slashing .216/.289/.331 with a .620 OPS, seven home runs and 27 RBIs.

Baty particularly struggled since July 1, batting .149 with a .482 OPS, which was enough for the Mets to demote him.

According to manager Buck Showalter, this is considered to be a bit of a time out for Baty, who can benefit mentally by being sent down.

With all the hype surrounding Baty, the Mets can only hope that he can figure things out in the minor leagues and translate it to the big-league level.

Despite the demotion, Baty is still considered to be the Mets' third baseman of the future.

Published Aug 7, 2023

PAT RAGAZZO

Pat Ragazzo is the reporter, publisher, site manager and executive editor for Sports Illustrated's Mets and Yankees On SI websites. Pat was selected as The Top Reporter & Publisher of the Year 2024 by the International Association of Top Professionals (IAOTP) for outstanding leadership, dedication, and commitment to the industry. He has been seen on several major TV Network stations including: NBC4, CBS2, FOX5, PIX11 and NY1; and is frequently heard on ESPN New York FM 880 AM and WFAN Sports Radio 101.9 FM as a guest. Pat also serves as the Mets insider for the "Allow Me 2 Be Frank" podcast hosted by Frank "The Tank" Fleming of Barstool Sports. You can follow him on Twitter/X: @ragazzoreport.