New York Mets Spring Training, Clover Park, Port St. Lucie, FL.
Photo by Gabrielle Raucci, On NJ Sports
March 15, 2025

Mets Battle for Second Base: Who will fill in for McNeil?

By Gabrielle Raucci

Mets’ Jeff McNeil (2B) to Open Season on Injured List

In his pregame media availability on Thursday, Mets’ Manager Carlos Mendoza announced that Jeff McNeil would begin the season on the injured list due to an oblique strain. The injury is expected to sideline him for three to four weeks, creating an early-season challenge for the Mets as they adjust their infield alignment.

 

Big League Baty

Brett Baty is the leading candidate to replace McNeil at second base. Baty has been one of the Mets’ most productive hitters this spring, posting a .375 batting average with two home runs, 12 hits, and a 1.100 OPS across 35 at-bats.

 

While primarily a third baseman, he gained experience at second base last season, playing 27 games at the position for Triple-A Syracuse. His strong offensive performance in camp positions him as a logical option to fill the void left by McNeil’s absence.

Acuña’s Versatility and Power

Luisangel Acuña will also receive opportunities at second base. Acuña, who made his MLB debut last season, demonstrated power at the plate while filling in for Francisco Lindor at shortstop. With his defensive versatility and offensive potential, he provides another viable infield option for Mendoza and the Mets’ coaching staff.

As with any non-starting player, the potential for a regular major league role comes with concerns, and something for the Mets’ coaching staff to consider is whether getting everyday reps in Triple-A Syracuse could be better suited for the 23-year-old utility player rather than rushing the development to fill a significant gap in the middle infield.

Mendoza, who is confident in the depth of the organization’s options, can also call on Donovan Walton and Luis De Los Santos to potentially fill in as well.

Bounce-Back Mets

While McNeil’s absence is a setback, the Mets have depth to weather the early-season challenge. Baty’s impressive spring performance and prior experience at second base make him a strong candidate to step in, while Acuña’s versatility and offensive upside provide another dynamic option.

Both young players are eager for everyday roles, so this stretch presents an opportunity for the Mets to showcase their infield depth and develop long-term contributors. If Baty continues his hot hitting and Acuña capitalizes on his reps, the team could emerge from this situation even stronger once McNeil returns.

About the Author

Gabrielle Raucci
Lead Writer, New York Mets

Gabrielle is the New York Mets Lead Writer at ONNJ Sports, serving as your primary source for all coverage from Flushing, Queens—delivered with a touch of satirical humor. A native of the Hudson Valley, she studied Business and Marketing at Marist College. With her experience in Minor League Baseball promotions, Gabrielle offers an insightful—often sarcastic—and entertaining perspective on Mets baseball as a lifelong fan.

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