The Mets are giving Brett Baty another look at shortstop Sunday as they explore whether his versatility could provide additional roster flexibility in 2027.
The New York Mets are using the final weekend of a disappointing season to experiment with a surprising possibility for 2027.
Brett Baty made his first career start at shortstop Saturday against the Washington Nationals, giving the Mets a chance to evaluate another potential role for him next season.
The experiment could have implications for how the Mets construct their roster next season.
Manager Andy Green said Saturday that New York wanted to determine whether Baty could occasionally spell Francisco Lindor at shortstop, according to Anthony DiComo of MLB.com.
"This serves a purpose in '27," Green said.
Baty had logged only four major-league innings at shortstop before Saturday. But the 26-year-old has now appeared at six defensive positions during his career and has spent time at first base, second base, third base and right field this season.
The Mets are not looking to replace Lindor at shortstop. Instead, Baty's ability to handle the position occasionally could give New York considerably more flexibility when constructing its bench.
Green said having Baty capable of filling in when Lindor needs a rare day off could provide "a lot of roster flexibility if it's a viable solution."
The experiment comes amid uncertainty surrounding some of the Mets' other infield options. Bo Bichette can opt out of his contract after the World Series, while Ronny Mauricio faces uncertainty about his place on next year's roster.
Baty has also strengthened his case for a significant role with his performance at the plate.
He entered Saturday hitting .283 with a .341 on-base percentage and .506 slugging percentage since June 30. MLB.com also noted that Baty has graded as a plus defender this season by both Outs Above Average and Defensive Runs Saved.
What began as an unusual late-season experiment could give the Mets another option as they begin reshaping their roster for 2027.
