Why the Mets’ next prospect wave is providing newfound optimism after dramatic transformation

PORT ST. LUCIE – Much of the optimism surrounding the Mets’ farm system revolves around several pitchers who will potentially have an opportunity to help the team this season or next.

But as senior vice president of player development Andy Green evaluates the system now compared to when he arrived to the organization about 15 months ago, it’s the depth on the positional side that is noticeable.

Of the Mets’ top 20 prospects, as ranked by MLB Pipeline, 14 are position players. It’s a group that includes Jett Williams, Carson Benge, Ryan Clifford, Luisangel Acuña, Jesus Baez, Elian Peña, Ronny Mauricio, Drew Gilbert, Jeremy Rodriguez, Boston Baro, Marco Vargas, Trey Snyder, Nick Morabito and Daiverson Gutierrez.

“I think we’re greatly encouraged on both sides of the ball,” Green said Thursday at Clover Park. “I don’t feel we were necessarily at that point on the offensive side of the ball last year, so I think there’s been some good steps forward and I think we’re seeing it bear out, not just in our top prospects but even a level down — many more interesting pieces in spring this year relative to last.”