Mets in Trade Talks Over Key Third Basemen as Bo Bichette Takes Field Position Shift
The New York Mets are engaged in trade talks with the Pittsburgh Pirates over two emerging players, Brett Baty and Mark Vientos, who occupy the third base rotation alongside Fransico Lindor. The switch comes after signing shortstop Bo Bichette to play an unfamiliar position - third base.
Bichette's defensive limitations at shortstop make it essential for him to contribute from a different defensive spot, with second baseman Marcus Seimien already assuming that role. Now, the Mets must decide how Baty and Vientos, both 26 years old, will be utilized.
As highly-rated prospects, Baty and Vientos have immense value due to their youth and untapped potential. FanGraphs has ranked them among the top prospects in the system, with Baty as the second-best prospect at one point and Vientos as the sixth prospect. Both players have shown significant growth, contributing 2.3 fWAR for Baty in 2025 and 2.9 fWAR in 2024 for Vientos.
The Mets' decision to trade these key infielders could benefit the Pittsburgh Pirates, who are facing an infield roster crunch. The Pirates will likely seek a high return on their investment, given the promising prospects involved. However, this deal may prove challenging for the Mets, as Baty and Vientos hold significant value due to their youth and untapped potential.
The situation has raised questions about the future of these players in New York. Will they be traded to bolster the Pirates' infield, or will the Mets find a way to retain them? As trade talks continue, one thing is certain - the Mets are looking to address their third base needs, and Brett Baty and Mark Vientos could play a significant role in determining their future.
The New York Mets are engaged in trade talks with the Pittsburgh Pirates over two emerging players, Brett Baty and Mark Vientos, who occupy the third base rotation alongside Fransico Lindor. The switch comes after signing shortstop Bo Bichette to play an unfamiliar position - third base.
Bichette's defensive limitations at shortstop make it essential for him to contribute from a different defensive spot, with second baseman Marcus Seimien already assuming that role. Now, the Mets must decide how Baty and Vientos, both 26 years old, will be utilized.
As highly-rated prospects, Baty and Vientos have immense value due to their youth and untapped potential. FanGraphs has ranked them among the top prospects in the system, with Baty as the second-best prospect at one point and Vientos as the sixth prospect. Both players have shown significant growth, contributing 2.3 fWAR for Baty in 2025 and 2.9 fWAR in 2024 for Vientos.
The Mets' decision to trade these key infielders could benefit the Pittsburgh Pirates, who are facing an infield roster crunch. The Pirates will likely seek a high return on their investment, given the promising prospects involved. However, this deal may prove challenging for the Mets, as Baty and Vientos hold significant value due to their youth and untapped potential.
The situation has raised questions about the future of these players in New York. Will they be traded to bolster the Pirates' infield, or will the Mets find a way to retain them? As trade talks continue, one thing is certain - the Mets are looking to address their third base needs, and Brett Baty and Mark Vientos could play a significant role in determining their future.