How Should The Mets Handle Their Crowded Outfield?

Last season, the Mets really struggled with getting any offensive production from their outfielders and had one of the worst outfields in MLB. This season, the Mets actually have the opposite dilemma and are trying to figure out how to incorporate their 4 outfielders into the starting lineup. Right now with Juan Lagares's injury, the Mets starting outfield has been Eric Young Jr, Curtis Granderson, and Chris Young. When Lagares comes back, the Mets will have to decide who plays every day and who to put in a platoon situation. I think that Lagares needs to be the lineup every day as the starting CF. His defense is spectacular and can really make a huge impact. He is also becoming a much improved hitter and is more selective at the plate. That leaves Chris Young, Eric Young Jr, and Curtis Granderson to fill out the other two outfield spots. I think that when the Mets face lefty pitching, they should start Young Jr and Chris Young and bench Granderson. Granderson really struggles against lefties, so it makes more sense for him to sit against a tough lefty. Even though Eric Young Jr is a much weaker hitter from the right side, I think there's a better chance he will get a hit against lefties than Granderson. He also brings speed to the lineup and can distract the pitcher by putting a lot of pressure on the base paths. Chris Young provides power in the lineup, which is something the Mets really lack. He has also shown to be a real solid defensive player. When the Mets face righty pitching, they should start Granderson, Lagares, and Chris Young. Granderson is much more comfortable against righty pitching and Chris Young Jr can also hit righties well. I don't see Eric Young Jr as an everyday player. I think he is best suited in a platoon situation. He has not shown to hit well enough to be an everyday outfielder. I think that Chris Young and Lagares can also bat leadoff as well as EY.

It will be very interesting to see how Terry Collins handles the outfield situation once they are at full strength. I think there will be constant changes and alternating in the outfield so each outfielder can get playing time. This will be an ongoing debate throughout this season.