Mets president of baseball operations David Stearns, when speaking Tuesday, didn't rule out the possibility of Baty being tried in the outfield next season, Mike Puma of the New York Post reports.
Baty has played a bit of left field in the minors and was used there for one inning with the Mets in 2023, but he hasn't started a game in the outfield since 2022. The Mets were impressed with how he adapted to second base when used there last season, and it appears the team is aiming to continue to increase Baty's defensive versatility.
Baty is with the Mets in Milwaukee as part of their taxi squad, Tim Healey of Newsday reports.
Jesse Winker is dealing with a back issue, which has his status for the National League Wild Card series in question. If Winker is unable to go, it sounds like Baty would be the choice to replace him on the roster. Baty put up a .633 OPS in 50 games during the regular season with the Mets but had a .925 OPS in his final 14 contests at Triple-A Syracuse.
Triple-A Syracuse reinstated Baty (finger) from the 7-day injured list Wednesday. Michael Mayer of MetsmerizedOnline.com reports.
Baty had been sidelined since late August with a fractured left index finger. Mets manager Carlos Mendoza said Wednesday that Baty playing again in the majors this season is "in play," per Tim Healey of Newsday. However, given his .633 OPS in 50 games with the Mets this season, it's unlikely he'll have much of a role even if he does get recalled. He'll make his return to the Triple-A lineup Wednesday against Charlotte as Syracuse's designated hitter.
