What Return of Eduardo Escobar Means for New York Mets

What return of Eduardo Escobar means for New York Mets.
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The New York Mets' infield is close to being back at full strength, as Eduardo Escobar was activated off the IL on Saturday. 

Although Escobar is in tonight's starting lineup against a left-handed pitcher, as he returns from an oblique injury, don't expect him to be the every day third baseman while Luis Guillorme remains on the shelf. 

According to Mike Puma of The New York Post, Escobar is likely to play against lefties and serve in a super utility role.

The Mets opted to keep rookie third baseman Brett Baty on the active roster, and designated Yolmer Sanchez for assignment. This means Escobar will be the Mets' backup shortstop and second baseman until Guillorme comes back. 

After the Mets acquired outfielder Tyler Naquin from the Cincinnati Reds ahead of the deadline, Escobar and Guillorme began platooning at third base. With the call-up of Baty, Escobar will hit against south paws, while having to tap into his versatility to see the field. 

Escobar signed a two-year, $20 million deal with the Mets in the offseason. However, the switch-hitting infielder has been a major disappointment, posting a .216 average, .653 OPS, 12 home runs and 44 RBIs in 102 games. 

Read More:

Mets' Bullpen Must Get Back on Track Before Postseason

- Carlos Carrasco Expects to Return to Mets Earlier Than Planned

- Look: Bartolo Colon Prepares for Mets' Old Timers Day

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Pat Ragazzo
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.