With just ten days until Opening Day, the New York Mets are in the thick of decision-making regarding their roster. While pitching is a primary focus, filling the designated hitter spot and bench roles is equally crucial. Mark Vientos and Joey Wendle are vying for these positions, aiming to contribute significantly during the regular season.

Vientos displayed some of his power with a 2-for-4 performance against Miami in game one of a split-squad series at Clover Park. At the same time, utilityman Wendle went 3-for-4 against the Washington Nationals at CACTI Park.

The Mets have refrained from signing a designated hitter this offseason, banking on Vientos to step up with his offensive weapons. Despite occasional displays of power, Vientos has struggled at the plate, as evident in his recent performance against Houston with multiple strikeouts. However, he showcased a glimpse of bouncing back with a three-run homer on Sunday against Marlins pitcher Devin Smeltzer in the 6th inning to make it a 6-5 ballgame.

Vientos’ history reveals a persistent issue with strikeouts throughout his career. Despite impressive home run numbers, his strikeout rates have remained high. While the Mets are considering J.D. Martinez for the role, they prioritize giving opportunities to younger talents like Vientos.

Although Vientos faces uncertainties due to his inconsistent performance, he holds onto his role as a designated hitter for the Mets. However, whether this will change in the upcoming weeks remains uncertain, awaiting further developments from Vientos’ bat and how he continues to handle his chance at an extended role.

Over in West Palm Beach…

On another game, Joey Wendle continues his strong spring, as he notched three hits and a run batted in during the Mets’ 9-8 loss to the Nationals. In fifteen spring training at-bats since returning from shoulder soreness, Wendle has seven hits and a batting average of .467. Wendle signed a one-year deal this off-season to replace Luis Guillorme as the team’s utilityman.

Wendle remains a reliable defender, considering his strong performances at shortstop and second base. He’s versatile across the infield and has even dabbled in outfield positions, although it’s been a while since he last played there in 2018. While not blazingly fast, his sprint speed exceeds the average, aiding him in stealing 19 bases out of 23 attempts over the past two seasons.

Joey Wendle, Photo by Ed Delany of Metmerized

This aspect, his speed, justifies his inclusion to fill the role previously held by Guillorme. Both players lack power in their hitting but offer defensive flexibility. In Tampa, Wendle, not only showcased his defensive prowess but became known for his pesky hitting, consistently delivering above-average offense except for a setback due to injuries in 2019. However, his performance took a downturn in 2021, leading to him being moved to the Marlins in the following offseason.

However, Wendle’s above-average speed makes him valuable as a pinch runner late in games, a dimension Guillorme lacks due to his slower pace. Wendle’s reputation as a positive presence in the locker room suggests he could assist a rookie manager in stabilizing a clubhouse that has faced turbulence recently. The Mets hope that Wendle can provide a stabilizing presence on the bench and something the team can rely on in a pinch when needed.