The New York Mets entered the 2025 season with hopes of solidifying their infield and unlocking the potential of young talents like Brett Baty. However, just a few weeks into the campaign, Baty’s cold bat has become a cause for comncern. With veterans like Jeff McNeil nearing a return and top prospect Ronny Mauricio on the mend, Baty’s grip on the starting second base job may be slipping.

Mets manager Carlos Mandoza announced the injury news on on Tuesday that McNeil is expected to begin a rehab assignment soon after recovering from a strained oblique suffered in Spring Training (via SNY). A former All-Star and National League batting champion, McNeil’s proven bat and defensive versatility make him a prime candidate to retake the second base position once healthy.

The Mets face a decision on what to do with Baty amid McNeil’s looming return.

When compared to his 2024 campaign, the decline is evident for Baty. Last season, he appeared in 50 games, hitting .229 with four home runs and 16 RBI. He posted a .306 on-base percentage and a .327 slugging percentage, combining for a .633 OPS—figures that showed room for growth if not immediate stardom.

But through the first stretch of the 2025 season, that growth has yet to materialize. Through 10 games, Baty has logged just 3 hits in 27 at-bats, translating to a .111 batting average. He has yet to tally a home run or RBI, and his OPS has plummeted to .259. Compounding the issue, Baty has struck out 11 times, underscoring his ongoing trouble making consistent contact.

Ronny Mauricio, another key piece in the Mets’ future plans, has also been making strides in his recovery from a torn ACL suffered during Dominican Winter League play. His return, projected for later this season, adds further intrigue—and competition—to the infield mix.

With Baty’s struggles coinciding with the potential returns of two talented infielders, the Mets’ coaching staff finds itself at a crossroads. If Baty can’t turn things around at the plate, he could be looking at a reduced role—or even a demotion. The coming weeks may prove crucial in determining whether Baty remains a part of the Mets’ everyday plans or becomes the odd man out.