Improving plate discipline was a significant goal for Mark Vientos during the previous offseason. Since his recall from Triple-A Syracuse, the Mets third baseman has shown significant improvement in this area. In Monday’s game against the Nationals, Vientos reached base four times and played a key role in his team’s 8-7 victory. He went 2-for-3 with a home run and walked twice, contributing to the Mets’ 13-hit attack.
Vientos attributes his success to taking his batting practice seriously. He recognizes the importance of not only practicing against live pitching but also focusing on proper plate discipline even during flips. He understands that swings taken during flips, although easier than in-game pitches, can influence his approach at the plate. By taking batting practice seriously and reminding himself to swing at strikes, Vientos has been able to improve his plate discipline and maximize his performance.
During Monday’s game, Vientos hit a home run against MacKenzie Gore in the fourth inning. Initially, he didn’t think he hit it well until he saw the exit velocity, which measured at 104.7 mph. This realization confirmed to him that he had indeed made solid contact with the ball. Vientos’ ability to hit left-handers has been particularly impressive this season, with three of his five home runs coming against left-handed pitchers.
In other Mets news, Francisco Alvarez won’t be traveling with the team to London for their games against the Phillies. However, he could be activated from the injured list during their upcoming homestand. Alvarez has been recovering from surgery to repair a torn ligament in his left thumb. He has played in three games for Double-A Binghamton as part of his rehab assignment.
Luis Torrens, who was traded from the Yankees to the Mets on Friday, has been behind the plate for two consecutive games. In the absence of Alvarez, veteran Tomas Nido has primarily handled the catching duties for the team.
On the pitching side, Drew Smith was fully available to pitch in Monday’s game, despite previous statements suggesting he was only an option for emergency situations. The team activated Smith from the injured list on Sunday, leading to questions about his limited availability. In response, Mendoza explained that Smith’s availability was still greater than what they would have had with Josh Walker, who had pitched the previous day. As a result, Walker was optioned to Triple-A Syracuse to make room for Smith.
