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MachoMan's avatar

Listening and I’m team Acuna. The team is better off with Acuna’s speed/defense so long as he hits better than early season Willie Mays Hayes. That seems more valuable to the team than Baty’s upside overall as a second baseman, even if Baty is a significantly better hitter.

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Jimmy P's avatar

Short-term, I like the plan of starting Baty vs. RHP and using Acuna as a defensive replacement, possibly early as the 7th if we've got a lead. When McNeil returns, however, it might be that Baty gets sent down (unless he's on fire), since two slow LH-hitting 2B is less ideal. However, they might come to believe that Acuna needs lots of ABs in order to learn how to manage the strike zone -- and he'll only get that down in AAA. For now: Go with the plan that helps the Mets win games in April. Then adjust accordingly.

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Peter Kauffmann's avatar

I think this plan makes sense, and may be what the team is going to do. I think Baby deserves a shot. What happens if he opens the season like Vientos did last year? It's worth a shot. And if he doesn't perform, send him down and use McNeil/Acuna.

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Ron Alexander's avatar

But he’s gotta hit! We already have hitting questions in CF and catcher!

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Jimmy P's avatar

I haven't seen much that tells me Acuna will hit at this point in his development.

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Rich Ballantine's avatar

Starting listening and WOW; such pessimism even before the season starts. Come on guys! Passen never likes us so don’t put any stock in him. Everyone is even and EVERYONE is going to have injuries throughout the year. I’ve been here since ‘62 and please just remember, “You Gotta Believe!” Cheers, Rich

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Blake Zeff's avatar

Agree! Keep listening. The optimism comes!

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Peter Kauffmann's avatar

Thank you for listening, Rich. I definitely believe! I am very excited about the season, although I agree, we sounded a bit down in the opening.

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