The New York Mets are gearing up for a fresh start in the upcoming 2024 season after a disappointing 2023 campaign that saw them finish 12 games below .500 and land in fourth place in the NL East division.
Despite the setbacks, the Mets have a promising asset in outfielder Drew Gilbert, acquired from the Houston Astros as part of the Justin Verlander trade. Gilbert has quickly ascended the prospect ranks, currently holding the title of the Mets’ No. 2 overall prospect and securing a spot in the MLB’s Top 100 prospects list at 52nd place, according to MLB Pipeline.
A first-round pick by the Astros in 2022, Gilbert showcased his talent during his first full year in professional baseball in 2023. After joining the Mets’ organization, he continued to impress, boasting a remarkable slash line of .325/.423/.561, along with six home runs and 21 RBIs in just 35 games. His defensive prowess was equally notable, as he demonstrated his versatility by playing all three outfield positions and effectively organizing the outfield.
Despite initial projections placing his MLB debut in 2025, there is growing anticipation that Gilbert might make an early appearance in 2024. The Mets’ newly appointed president of baseball operations, David Stearns, expressed his commitment to providing valuable playing time to the team’s young talents. He stated, “We will construct a roster that provides enough flexibility that our young, talented players do get a chance over the course of a year.”
Gilbert’s proximity to the Major League roster also works in his favor. As a 23-year-old, he is well-positioned to be called up based on his impressive skill set. Joe DeMayo of SNY notes, “Despite an aggressive swing, he does not strike out at an alarming rate (under 20 percent strikeout rate at the Double-A level) and has above-average plate discipline … He is an above-average athlete and that translates into the outfield, where he can handle the responsibilities of center field while possessing an arm strong enough to play right field … I fully expect Gilbert to begin the season with Triple-A Syracuse with the opportunity to potentially get a look at the big league level in the first half of 2024.”
With all these factors in play, it wouldn’t be surprising to see Gilbert shine as a rising star for the New York Mets in the upcoming season.