NEW YORK — Mark Vientos, the third baseman for the New York Mets, made a return to the lineup on Tuesday evening against the Philadelphia Phillies after being sidelined for two games due to a groin strain.
Vientos had exited a game on Saturday, a 3-0 victory over the St. Louis Cardinals, leaving in the fifth inning after performing a leaping catch. In his absence, Brett Baty took over at third base on Sunday and Monday.
The Mets, currently leading their division, took on Phillies’ left-handed pitcher Cristopher Sánchez in the series’ second game with Vientos reclaiming his spot in the batting order.
“I’ve just been focusing on healing and sticking to the recovery process. It feels good to be back,” Vientos expressed, following a 5-1 win, contributing to a six-game winning streak for the Mets.
As of late, the 25-year-old Vientos had a batting average of .167, along with two home runs, six RBIs, and a .565 OPS. He hadn’t had much success against left-handed pitchers this season, going 0 for 13, and was 1 for 22 with runners in scoring position. However, he hit his first two homers of the year last Thursday and Friday.
His performance improved when he hit a two-out RBI double against Sánchez in the opening inning of the game.
“It’s funny, it doesn’t feel any different. I’ve been playing the same way; I’m just finding more gaps in the defense now,” Vientos remarked. “The challenge in this game is not deviating from your approach, regardless of results.”
He also showcased his defensive skills in the second inning, making a tricky play that prevented at least one run, supported by a skillful scoop from first baseman Pete Alonso.
“I gave him a big hug right after that,” Vientos said with a laugh. “He often doesn’t get enough credit for his prowess at first base.”
Vientos had an impressive 2024 season, boasting a .266 batting average with 27 home runs and 71 RBIs, along with an .837 OPS. During the playoffs, he added five homers and set a Mets postseason record with 14 RBIs, helping the team reach the National League Championship Series.
In the meantime, left fielder Brandon Nimmo took a rest in light of a matchup against a left-handed pitcher, as the Mets are in the middle of a stretch of 13 consecutive games without a break. José Azócar took Nimmo’s spot in left field and batted ninth.