Sometimes, progress catches you off guard. One minute, you’re watching someone struggle, uncertain if they’ll ever find their footing.
Then suddenly, they’re flying. That’s been the arc of Brett Baty’s journey—a steady simmer that’s finally boiled over. Now, Mets fans are witnessing the long-anticipated rise of a breakout star.
Between April 24 and May 6, Baty was back with the Triple-A Syracuse Mets. It was a hard setback, especially considering he’d started to show some offensive promise just before the demotion.
At the time, his wRC+ sat below 70—a tough number for those who believed in his potential at the plate.
But baseball isn’t only about statistics. It’s about timing, growth, and opportunities. On May 7, Baty was recalled to the majors, and since then, he’s looked like a transformed player.
A bat that’s come alive
Since rejoining the team, Baty hasn’t just held steady—he’s been one of the Mets’ top contributors. His wRC+ has climbed to 108, a dramatic shift that highlights the improvement in his approach.
His .471 slugging percentage and six home runs are turning heads. There’s a sharper, more confident sound off his bat now. Every hit seems to say something—not just to the fans, but to the league.
He’s not just swinging anymore; he’s making a statement.
His power is legitimate and has the potential to change games. When he makes contact, the ball doesn’t just travel—it explodes. It’s the kind of force that can flip the momentum or electrify a stadium.
Steady brilliance at third base
What makes Baty’s resurgence even more impressive is his defense. He’s quietly become one of the strongest defenders at third base.
It’s a part of his game that’s flown under the radar but shouldn’t be overlooked.
He’s already accumulated four Defensive Runs Saved (DRS), placing him among elite company like Matt Chapman, Ryan McMahon, and Alex Bregman.
The kicker? He hasn’t even been in the big leagues the entire year. He missed two critical weeks in Triple-A and dealt with inconsistent starts earlier in the season. Still, he’s right there with the best defenders.
That’s like a first-time chess player walking in and holding their ground against grandmasters.
The timing couldn’t be better
The Mets didn’t send Baty down because they lost faith—it was more about managing roster logistics.
But now, with the way he’s playing, it’s hard to picture this team without him.
He’s filling the gap left by Mark Vientos at third and may even see time at second base, adding flexibility to his already strong defensive value.
This kind of versatility and excellence isn’t stumbled upon—it’s cultivated.
It’s taken over two years, but the investment is finally bearing fruit. Watching Baty come into his own feels like watching a long-missing puzzle piece lock into place.
The Mets needed energy. Baty brought the spark—and then some.