Position: First Base/Outfielder/Designated Hitter
Age: 30 (March 30th, 1992)
2022 Stats: 75 G, .281/.357/.428 SLG, .122 OPS+, 1.8 WAR
The New York Mets are in a bit of a situation, as the designated hitter role has become a point of weakness. Dominic Smith and J.D. Davis haven’t fit the bill this season, causing the Mets to inquire outside the organization. While players like Josh Bell and Andrew Benintendi are good options for that role, another player that might do well for New York in that situation is current Baltimore Orioles first baseman and designated hitter, Trey Mancini.
Mancini has hit 20+ home runs in every season he’s been in the league except for one, with his best season coming in 2019. That year, he hit .291/.364/.535 with 35 home runs, and 97 RBIs. Even after missing a whole season due to a cancer diagnosis, Mancini returned to the majors in 2021 with a solid season, hitting 21 home runs, 71 RBIs, with a 106 OPS+.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=k01zeVgeFZc
Although his power numbers have been down this year, with only 8 home runs, Mancini is still boasting a high batting average with a .281 tally, along with a .357 OBP, a .428 SLG, and a .785 OPS. A big reason for this reduction of power could be due to the fences being pushed back at Camden Yards. An interesting statistic in the form of “Expected Home Runs By Park” shows something that could greatly benefit the Mets.
According to Baseball Savant, Trey Mancini’s 2022 expected home runs at Citi Field jumps from 8 to 16. Considering his already solid hitting numbers with a “dip” in power, the extra home runs he could provide for New York would be such a leap in production for a spot that sorely needs it. A combined total of three home runs between Davis and Smith, and 16 possible home runs in the designated hitter spot substantially helps the Mets and their chances to win on a nightly basis, at Citi Field and elsewhere.
Notably, 16 at Citi Field. The Mets have a need at DH. https://t.co/tfk8q4MGmE
— Mike Mayer (@mikemayer22) July 6, 2022
Mancini also provides versatility in that he can play multiple positions such as first base, right and left field as well as filling in as a designated hitter. Added his familiarity with Mets manager Buck Showalter (who managed Mancini from 2016 to 2018) makes this all but a good fit for New York.
Mancini also has a $10 million option for next season, which means any trade wouldn’t be considered a rental. Right now, the Mets need help at the designated hitter position and while there are many potential options, few lack the versatility that Trey Mancini could provide for the Mets in this current stage.
