The gamble — or possibly bluff — by Mets officials is a Pete Alonso-less lineup can still produce enough to keep the team competitive in what should be another strong NL East field.
With eight days remaining until the first workout for pitchers and catchers in Port St. Lucie, Fla., the slugging first baseman remains available for any team to sign. A reunion still makes too much sense for both sides, but if it doesn’t occur, the Mets have their contingency plan.
It’s one that would thrust players such as Mark Vientos, Brett Baty, Luisangel Acuña and Ronny Mauricio further into the spotlight.
On one hand, such a maneuver could be the best thing that happens to the Mets, giving young players a chance to show they belong. In Vientos’ case — he established himself as a bona fide major league threat last season — it would be an opportunity to demonstrate he’s more than just a luxury and can help carry a lineup.
