PORT ST. LUCIE — Soon after a recent game, within the New York Mets’ clubhouse, Jorge Polanco engaged in a lengthy discussion with Keith Hernandez, focusing on the nuances of playing first base.
Only a handful of reporters were present alongside Polanco and Hernandez. During their talk, Polanco, still dressed in his uniform, listened intently, his gaze fixed on Hernandez, who dominated the conversation.
Considered by many to be the preeminent defensive first baseman, Hernandez boasts eleven Gold Glove Awards. He had just finished his duties as a television analyst. When the subject turns to first base, Hernandez invariably has much to impart.
Polanco, a 32-year-old relatively new to the position, wisely absorbed all the wisdom offered. This discussion proved immensely valuable for him. The Mets primarily value Polanco for his hitting prowess, suggesting he will frequently serve as the designated hitter. Yet, when he plays defense, he is slated to play first base. Although he began his career as a shortstop, he has primarily played second base. Polanco recalled Hernandez advising him to utilize his natural range and maintain self-assurance.
“He emphasized timeliness, understanding your infielders, and knowing how your pitching staff prefers to throw to first base,” Polanco recounted. “He encouraged me to cover as much territory as possible while still reaching the base punctually. However, for me, his advice on developing the right mindset and confidence was paramount.”
Earlier this week, three hours prior to a game, Carson Benge settled onto the dugout steps, resting his back against the wall and gazing out at the deserted field. This 23-year-old outfielder is nearing the end of his inaugural big-league camp, on the verge of his major-league debut. He exuded an air of complete nonchalance.
Noticing Benge seated alone on the steps with an impassive expression, a Mets official requested to take his picture. Benge readily obliged, offering a wide smile for the camera.
Veteran Mets players have noted Benge’s stoic nature as a genuine aspect of his personality. While some top prospects might appear unaffected by pressure, Benge, despite understanding the significance, displays no indications of being overwhelmed.
Before Friday’s game, Benge mentioned he had not yet been told if he would secure a spot on the Mets’ Opening Day roster. The Mets’ decision to start Bo Bichette at shortstop hints at their deliberation between Benge and veteran Mike Tauchman versus a utility infielder such as Vidal Bruján. Should star shortstop Francisco Lindor, recovering from last month’s hamate surgery, need to exit a game, Bichette could move from third base to shortstop, with a player like Brett Baty taking over at third.
Benge, for his part, has performed so well that denying him the right field position seems almost impossible.
Across 12 Grapefruit League appearances, Benge has posted a slash line of .412/.487/.500. Beyond these statistics, Mets club officials have repeatedly praised Benge’s impressive approach, plate discipline, and defensive skills. On Friday, facing two left-handed pitchers from the St. Louis Cardinals, the left-handed-hitting Benge finished 1-for-2, including a strikeout and a walk.
When questioned about Benge’s performance against left-handers this spring, Mets manager Carlos Mendoza stated, “Pitchers execute their pitches, and he demonstrates the ability to avoid some of them. I also admire how he utilizes the entire field. With two strikes, he isn’t hesitant to remain patient and hit the ball the other way.”
One particular morning, Huascar Brazobán was at his locker, marking his initial day back with the Mets after representing the Dominican Republic in the World Baseball Classic. He had arrived at the facility significantly earlier than the majority of his teammates.
Upon entering the clubhouse, his teammates took notice and welcomed Brazobán back.
Freddy Peralta, also a native of the Dominican Republic, was the most vocal in his greeting.
When Peralta caught sight of Brazobán, he exclaimed, “Brazo! Wow! Wow, Brazo!”
“Impressed?” Peralta later asked, his face reflecting disbelief. “He was outstanding.”
Brazobán certainly garnered attention during the tournament. Over four WBC innings, he impressively retired 12 out of 13 batters, recording seven strikeouts. Following the Dominican Republic’s elimination, Mendoza confirmed New York’s plan to include Brazobán on the Opening Day roster. The primary point of interest regarding Brazobán stemmed from his eligibility to be sent down to the minor leagues.
With Brazobán securing a roster spot, one bullpen vacancy remains. Craig Kimbrel, Bryan Hudson, and Richard Lovelady are contenders for this position, although Mets officials have indicated they might also seek external options as teams around the league finalize their rosters.