Mets' Brett Baty getting early versatility tests at new positions

The Mets are hoping that Brett Baty can live up to the role of super utility man straight from the jump.

Mar. 30, 2026 at 8:52pm

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A cubist-style painting depicting a baseball player in the outfield, broken down into sharp, overlapping geometric shapes in vibrant colors, capturing the dynamic movement and athleticism of the game.Baty's versatility across the diamond is a key asset for the Mets as they look to build a well-rounded roster.NYC Today

The New York Mets are giving 26-year-old infielder Brett Baty opportunities to play multiple positions, including first base, second base, third base, and now right field, as they look to maximize his versatility and find ways to get his bat in the lineup. Mets manager Carlos Mendoza praised Baty's athleticism and ability to quickly adapt to new positions, noting that his willingness to play wherever the team needs him has been crucial.

Why it matters

Baty was once considered the Mets' third baseman of the future, but the team's offseason acquisition of Bo Bichette has prompted Baty to embrace a more versatile role. The Mets are hoping that Baty's ability to play multiple positions will allow them to keep his powerful left-handed bat in the lineup more often, even if he's not the everyday starter at one specific position.

The details

In the first four games of the season, Baty has already seen time as a designated hitter, first baseman, and right fielder. Mets manager Carlos Mendoza highlighted Baty's athleticism, footwork, and hand-eye coordination as key factors that have allowed him to transition smoothly between positions. The Mets are particularly encouraged by Baty's willingness to embrace this versatile role, which will be crucial as they look to maximize their roster and find creative ways to get Baty's bat in the lineup.

  • On March 30, 2026, Baty made his first career start at first base in the Mets' series finale against the Pittsburgh Pirates.
  • On March 31, 2026, Baty made his first career start in right field for the Mets' opener against the St. Louis Cardinals.

The players

Brett Baty

A 26-year-old infielder for the New York Mets who is being tested at multiple positions, including first base, second base, third base, and now right field, as the team looks to maximize his versatility and find ways to keep his powerful left-handed bat in the lineup.

Carlos Mendoza

The manager of the New York Mets, who has praised Baty's athleticism, footwork, and hand-eye coordination as key factors that have allowed him to transition smoothly between positions.

Bo Bichette

An infielder acquired by the Mets in the offseason, whose addition to the team has prompted Baty to embrace a more versatile role.

Carson Benge

The Mets' starting right fielder, who is also a left-handed bat, allowing the team to find ways to get Baty playing time in the outfield.

Kyle Leahy

The right-handed starting pitcher for the St. Louis Cardinals that the Mets faced on March 31, 2026.

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What they’re saying

“The athleticism, how easy he moves around the base, his ability to use the whole bag with his footwork, corner to corner, his ability to pick up the baseball because he's got such great hands, there's a lot to like.”

— Carlos Mendoza, Mets Manager

“The one thing for me was from the very beginning, when we started having the conversations in the offseason, was that he was all in. That's where it starts. The willingness to do whatever the team is asking you to do.”

— Carlos Mendoza, Mets Manager

What’s next

The Mets will continue to monitor Baty's progress as he adapts to his new versatile role, and they will likely continue to find creative ways to get his bat in the lineup, even if he's not the everyday starter at one specific position.

The takeaway

Baty's willingness to embrace a super-utility role and his ability to quickly learn new positions have been crucial for the Mets as they look to maximize their roster and find creative ways to keep his powerful left-handed bat in the lineup. This versatility could be a key factor in Baty's long-term success with the team.