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The New York Mets have made significant strides this offseason, but questions remain regarding their infield, particularly at first base following the departure of Pete Alonso. Their depth chart lacks clarity, and how they address this issue could have a significant impact on their 2025 season.

Potential Scenarios for the Mets’ Infield

1. Signing a Top Free Agent: Pete Alonso or Alex Bregman
   • Re-signing Alonso: The simplest solution would be bringing back the ‘Polar Bear.’ Alonso’s consistent power production makes him a cornerstone at first base. If he returns, the Mets can maintain stability in their lineup, with Mark Vientos continuing to develop at third base.
   • Signing Alex Bregman: If Alonso moves on, the Mets could pivot to Bregman, adding elite defense and a reliable bat at third base. This move would push Vientos to first base, addressing Alonso’s vacancy indirectly while enhancing the hot corner.
2. Internal Solutions Without Major Signings
   If the Mets choose not to pursue Alonso, Bregman, or other top-tier free agents, they have internal options:
   • Mark Vientos at First Base: Transitioning Vientos to first could be a natural fit given his bat-first profile and below-average defense at third base. This would allow the Mets to explore younger or stopgap options at third base.
   • Brett Baty or Ronny Mauricio: Both players are versatile and could contribute at third base. Baty’s left-handed bat and Mauricio’s athleticism offer intriguing potential, though both are still refining their skills at the MLB level.
3. Exploring Trades
   The Mets’ aggressive front office could consider trading for a proven first baseman or third baseman. Options could include pursuing players like C.J. Cron or others on shorter contracts, buying time for internal development.
4. A Hybrid Approach
   The Mets could make smaller moves to bolster their depth without committing to a blockbuster signing. Adding veteran utility players or solid bench contributors could provide flexibility while assessing younger talents like Baty, Mauricio, and Vientos.

The Mets’ Offseason Outlook

While re-signing Alonso or signing a marquee player like Bregman remains the most exciting option for fans, the Mets have built themselves a degree of flexibility. They can pivot based on market opportunities or focus on developing their promising prospects.

Ultimately, the Mets’ willingness to invest further in free agents or trades could determine whether they capitalize on a strong offseason or face challenges in addressing their infield gaps. Their next moves will showcase how serious they are about contending in 2025.

The New York Mets might lean on versatility as they address their infield needs, particularly at first base, following Pete Alonso’s departure. Jesse Winker’s willingness to step in as a first baseman adds another layer of flexibility for the Mets’ roster construction in 2025.

Jesse Winker as a First-Base Option

Winker’s statement about being “very comfortable” playing first base highlights his readiness to provide defensive flexibility. While primarily a corner outfielder, his experience and willingness to adapt could allow the Mets to experiment with different configurations.

• Offensive Value: Winker showed he can still contribute offensively, posting a 118 wRC+ and hitting 14 home runs last year. While he doesn’t possess Alonso’s power, his ability to reach base and deliver consistent production could make him a serviceable stopgap at first.
• Cost-Effective Alternative: Re-signing Winker was a low-risk move that could pay dividends if his transition to first base proves viable. His lower cost compared to free-agent stars allows the Mets to allocate resources elsewhere if needed.

Brett Baty’s Role

If the Mets don’t make significant external additions, Brett Baty could get another opportunity to establish himself.

• Upside and Development: Though Baty struggled in 2024, his potential as a left-handed hitter with power and solid plate discipline remains intriguing. His defensive performance at third base has been inconsistent, but continued development could earn him a roster spot.
• Depth Options: If Baty doesn’t win a starting job, he could serve as a depth piece or spend time in the minors to refine his skills. His performance in spring training might determine his role.

Other In-House Alternatives

• Mark Vientos: Vientos, who had a breakout season in 2024, could take over at first base if Winker isn’t the solution. His power bat would be a natural fit to replace Alonso’s offensive void.
• Ronny Mauricio: Mauricio’s athleticism and offensive upside make him another intriguing option, potentially at third base or as a utility infielder.

Strategic Flexibility

The Mets’ willingness to explore unconventional options like Winker at first base demonstrates their commitment to flexibility. By leveraging players with positional versatility, they can maximize their roster’s potential while evaluating long-term solutions.

While Winker and in-house alternatives aren’t direct replacements for Alonso, their contributions could keep the Mets competitive, especially if paired with a strong pitching staff and productive offense.

If the Mets are committed to experimenting with Jesse Winker at first base, they need to take proactive measures to prepare him for the role. Transitioning to first base involves mastering a unique set of defensive skills that differ significantly from those required in the outfield.

Steps for Transitioning Winker to First Base

1. Start Training Immediately
   Time is critical for Winker to familiarize himself with the nuances of playing first base. Early preparation during the offseason, with dedicated practice sessions, will give him the repetitions needed to build confidence and muscle memory.
2. Focus on Key Skills
   First base demands a specific skill set:
   • Footwork and Positioning: Learning proper foot placement around the bag is essential for receiving throws.
   • Stretching and Reactions: Winker must develop flexibility and quick reactions to scoop low throws or make plays on errant balls.
   • Fielding Grounders: While outfielders focus on fly balls, first basemen handle hard-hit grounders and throws at various angles.
   • Double Plays: Understanding pivot plays and how to work with middle infielders will be crucial.
3. Defensive Drills
   Winker should regularly participate in drills tailored for first basemen, including:
   • Receiving throws from all infield positions.
   • Practicing scoops and picks on short hops.
   • Simulating game scenarios like bunts, cutoffs, and holding runners on base.
4. Game Action During Spring Training
   To ease the learning curve, Winker should see action at first base during spring training games. Live reps will help him adjust to the pace and situational demands of the position.
5. Veteran Mentorship
   Working with a seasoned first baseman or a coach experienced in teaching the position could accelerate Winker’s progress. A mentor could guide him on the subtleties of positioning, communication with teammates, and handling pressure in critical moments.

Challenges for Winker

At 31 years old, learning a new position is no small feat. His athleticism and baseball instincts will help, but he’ll need to overcome:

• The physical demands of new movements, like stretching and lunging.
• The mental adjustment to a more stationary role, compared to the freedom of the outfield.

The Upside for the Mets

If Winker successfully adapts to first base, the Mets gain a versatile roster option who can fill a major hole without requiring a high-cost acquisition. His offensive value, combined with improved defensive utility, could make him an everyday player.

The key for the Mets will be committing the resources and time necessary for this transition to succeed.