PORT ST. LUCIE — For the past seven seasons, Pete Alonso was the unquestioned first baseman for the New York Mets, consistently filling the position despite limited range and arm strength. However, with Alonso’s offseason departure to Baltimore, the Mets are now adjusting to a new dynamic at first base. Brett Baty, Jorge Polanco, and Mark Vientos are among the players competing to fill that role, sparking uncertainty about the infield’s new composition as spring training progresses.
Baty’s Spring Debut at First Base Offers Early Encouragement
On Saturday, Brett Baty took his first start of spring training at first base during the Mets’ 3-2 loss to Washington at Clover Park. Although he had never played the position officially in the majors or minors before, Baty tackled the challenge head-on. While he admitted that his performance wasn’t flawless, he treated it as a valuable learning experience that gave him confidence moving forward.
“It was a fun challenge out there,’’ Baty said.
“There were no mistakes, but it didn’t look pretty, either. We’ll get better over there, for sure.”
—Brett Baty, Mets first baseman
His overall showing has been described as promising, reflecting both his adaptability and willingness to embrace a new role as the team searches for stability at first base. Baty emphasizes that the process is ongoing and requires patience, but he looks forward to further development during spring training.
Learning the Intricacies of First Base Defense
During the game, Baty faced moments requiring quick adjustments, such as a ground ball hit by Washington’s James Wood. He hesitated briefly before quickly heading to first base, allowing second baseman Marcus Semien to complete the play easily. These in-game lessons reveal how first base duties demand a different mindset compared to other positions Baty has played.
“There are some things you never see in practice till you get out there and do it in a game,’’ Baty noted.
—Brett Baty, Mets first baseman
Baty also discussed these moments with infield coaches Kai Correa and Carlos Mendoza to improve his positioning and decision-making. His natural instincts push him to chase every ball aggressively, a trait he honed at third and second base, but he recognizes that first base requires focusing on being in the right spot and ready to receive throws.
“I felt like I wanted to go get the ball,”
Baty explained.
“That’s just how I’ve always been: At third base, go get every ball you can go get. Second base the same thing. Some [balls] I wanted to get and I had to remember Marcus is right behind me and I need to get my butt to first base.”
—Brett Baty, Mets first baseman
Modeling His Approach After Pete Alonso
Baty acknowledges the example set by Pete Alonso, his predecessor at first base, who was known for understanding the nuances of partnering effectively with the second baseman. Alonso’s role focused primarily on holding his position at first base, an aspect Baty is working to incorporate into his own game as he matures in this role.
“I felt Pete was really good at knowing where the second baseman was and his job was just to be at first base,”
Baty reflected.
Expanding Versatility With Outfield Opportunities
Baty’s spring training activities are not limited to first base. Carlos Mendoza, the team’s infield instructor, indicated that Baty would likely also see action in right field, keeping him on the team’s right side defensively. Baty enjoys outfield work, praising the chance to catch fly balls and showcase his arm strength.
“I tell people I feel like a football receiver out there,”
Baty said regarding his outfield play.
I can catch fly balls and show off the arm. I like it out there.”
—Brett Baty, Mets player
His goal remains to contribute to the lineup in multiple ways, aiming to play first, second, and third base, as well as left and right field if needed, boosting his utility to the team.
Determined to Overcome Challenges and Gain Playing Time
Baty maintains a positive outlook on tackling new roles and gaining at-bats, recognizing that versatility is key to helping the Mets win games. He embraces the difficulties of adapting to different positions as opportunities to develop his game and boost his value to the club.
“I love tackling adversity,”
Baty said.
“Any way to get at-bats … and help the team win.”
—Brett Baty, Mets player
Competition and Coaching Support at First Base
Alongside Baty, Jorge Polanco and Mark Vientos are also in the running to secure the first base job. Polanco is transitioning from the middle infield, while Vientos, who is expected to play third base for Team Nicaragua in the upcoming World Baseball Classic, holds the most major league experience at first base among the trio, albeit just 12 games. With spring training lasting until March 26, the players have limited time to refine their skills at the position.
Mets infield coach Carlos Mendoza highlighted the detailed knowledge required at first base beyond simply catching throws—such as handling in-between plays, positioning, holding runners, and syncing with cutoffs. Despite the complexity, the staff remains optimistic.
“I feel comfortable that any of the three can play first base,”
Mendoza said.
I’d like to continue to get [Baty] as many reps as possible. It’s not easy, but he’s embracing the opportunity. He’s up for the challenge.”
—Carlos Mendoza, Mets infield coach
Significance of the New Infield Dynamics for the Mets
This season marks a defining period for the Mets as they adapt to the absence of Pete Alonso’s familiar presence at first base. The team’s ability to find a reliable player among Baty, Polanco, and Vientos could influence their overall defensive stability and offensive lineup. Brett Baty’s willingness to learn and expand his defensive repertoire demonstrates a promising attitude that could pay dividends if he continues to develop on the job during spring training.
How well these players acclimate and perform before Opening Day will affect the confidence and flexibility the Mets have at first base and beyond, potentially shaping the team’s success throughout the season. Coaches and fans alike will be closely watching to see which player can consistently meet the demands of the position while contributing to the offense.
