The Mets have not been exceeding expectations so far this season. But they are still very much in the mix for a playoff spot. A main reason why the team has not been doing so well is because they have experienced injuries to a couple of big bats from the lineup, a couple of big blows to the starting rotation as well as two key players opting out. However these injuries have led to the emergence of one of the team’s top prospects Andrés Giménez.
The rookie has been one of the team’s few bright spots and has definitely been impressive. With Amed Rosario, Robinson Canó now back in the lineup and Davis almost certainly keeping his spot at third. There is no longer a place for Giménez to start. However Giménez’s versatility, elite glove, his speed and stellar bat has surely made him an everyday player.
Although Giménez may not be starting most games anymore, the Mets now have options on how to use their young star. One of the most appealing roles is for Giménez to split time with Canó at second base. Canó has just returned from his stint on the injured list and considering his age as well as his recent injury history the Mets should not be playing everyday just yet. Also before Canó was injured he was being taken out of games due to him being a defensive liability. This means that when Canó is not starting Giménez could fill in at second, and when Canó is in the lineup the youngster can enter late in the game for his defense.
Another enticing option is to use Giménez as a pinch runner. The Mets have already been doing this with the young speedster and so far it has worked out. He has already shown that he is one of the fastest guys on the team and that he is capable of leading the league in stolen bases.
Giménez would also be the one to get the start when Rosario or Davis are resting or unable to play.
The rookie has proven that he deserves to stay and get a good amount of playing time. Any of these roles would get him on the field in some capacity almost regularly. Giménez has the potential to be a great player one day. But the Mets must keep him on the field in order for this to happen.
Photo: NY Daily News
