Mark Vientos, Photo by Ed Delany of Metsmerized

Mark Vientos came into spring training with the goal of making the Opening Day roster for the New York Mets. His individual performance on Saturday, March 4 against the Miami Marlins is just another example of what he is capable of. Vientos hit two home runs as the Mets went onto to win 15-4.

The number eight prospect in the Mets’ system connected on his first home run in the top of the fourth inning, launching the ball to deep center field to drive in two runs. Vientos did it again in the following inning, hitting another ball to dead center in the top of the fifth inning that drove in three more. His second home run of the day got out at 111 MPH, showing how violent his swing can be when he gets it right.

Despite a slow start in spring, Vientos is now hitting .333 with seven hits, two home runs, and an OPS of 1.047 in 21 at-bats. The sample size is small, but the young Met is stating his case for more opportunities in 2023. Vientos lines up as a potential candidate for at-bats from the designated hitter spot, although he has talked about his teammates’ on his defense.

“I have been working with him (Eduardo Escobar) at third base, Pete (Alonso) at first base. Like I said, he (Escobar) has taken me under his wing. Ever since I got called up last year, all I do with him is listen, listen listen, soak up as much information as possible,” Vientos said.

Vientos is not the only Mets’ prospect who has shined in the early days of spring training. Number two ranked prospect, third baseman Brett Baty, already has six hits in 15 at-bats, including a home run and an OPS of 1.071. The 23-year-old is making a strong case for a much bigger role in the big league team as he prepares for his first full season.

Additionally, number six ranked prospect Ronny Mauricio has been the talk of town thus far, showcasing his power to all fields. The young infielder has five hits and three home runs in 11 at-bats, currently sitting at a staggering 1.864 OPS.