Without a doubt, the New York Mets have a promising future.
The Mets’ 2023 season did not go as they had hoped, but in the long term, things might work out for the better. Prior to the 2023 Major League Baseball Trade Deadline, New York was one of the largest sellers, acquiring superstars Max Scherzer and Justin Verlander in the process.
Luisangel Acuña, the top prospect, and Drew Gilbert, the second prospect, were selected by New York, and in the not too distant future, both should contribute significantly to the big league team.
With the formal arrival of Spring Training, fans have had a longer look at both. Although it is uncertain when they will enter the major leagues, Andy Martino of SNY reports that Gilbert has made an impression in camp. Martino remarked, “Now to the pitch, where no player has attracted attention like Gilbert in the early games.”
“The outfielder has an outstanding skill set and an early approach at the plate. He was acquired by Billy Eppler and Steve Cohen last July for Verlander, along with corner (infield/outfield) prospect Ryan Clifford. Gilbert attempts to pull the ball until he is in a two-strike count, then shortens up and looks to use the entire field, similar to fellow left-handed batter Daniel Murphy.
“On Tuesday, with the bases loaded and down 0-2, Gilbert produced the most spectacular at-bat of the first half of camp when he successfully battled off a slider into left field to score two runs. The former pitcher has demonstrated what one assessor refers to as a “plus to double-plus arm” on defence. He possesses the arm for right field and the speed for centre field. It is a beneficial problem to have.
After being acquired by the Mets, Gilbert excelled while playing for the Double-A Binghamton Rumble Ponies. Since he is only 23 years old, it would not be shocking to see him play in the minor leagues for the full 2024 season, but if he keeps up his strong play, is a late-season call-up possible?
