Brett Batty’s bat flashed on Tuesday night, as did another defensive concern.
The Mets’ third baseman started the game in a pinch, hitting a first-run home run after Francisco Alvarez’s two-out blast.
Batey finished the game on the bench, and was replaced by veteran Louis Gillorm, after making a poor split-second decision in the seventh inning of an 11–10 win over the White Sox at Citi Field.
“Lewis is a really good defender, and we’re trying to win a baseball game,” manager Buck Showalter said of the late-game substitution. “Brett will be a good defender, too.”
Patty’s encouraging day turned out in the seventh inning.
The White Sox put runners on first and second with one out for a game the Mets were leading, 11-4.
Andrew Vaughn hit a chopper for Patty, who threw too late to second base — instead of going to first.
Tim Anderson slid safely, and the Mets were unable to score an out on the play.
The next two White Sox batters drove in two runs each as they returned to the game.
“I should have given Anderson the respect he deserves for his speed,” Batty said after going 1-for-5. And I should have known the lead we had, just tried to get one.
“I thought I had enough time to get it, but [Anderson’s] The speed is incredible. “
Adding to the frustration, the play came just days after Patty’s pop-up was chased around the field against the Dodgers on Saturday.
And he ended up with this ball in what became a viral moment.
The Mets traded Eduardo Escobar and cleared third base for Patty, who faced a learning curve as a rookie.
Maybe we will discuss [the misplay with Showalter on Wednesday]said Batty, who came through the Mets system better known for his bat than his glove.
Patty didn’t experience much failure in the minors, perfecting every level until making his way to the major leagues.
His biggest adjustment came after the 2021 season, when he had problems lifting and driving the ball, often ending up hitting the ground hard.
He changed his position before last season, which became his best and strongest.
He hit 19 home runs in 95 games for Double-A Binghamton and Syracuse.
The globe problem has resurfaced this season.
Among MLB hitters with at least 100 plate appearances, Patty’s 24.3 percent flyby average is the 11th lowest in baseball going into a Tuesday.
“We had a conversation about that the other day,” Batty said of his conversation with hitting coach Jeremy Barnes.
According to Patty, they’re not changing his swing but “it’s more about getting close.”
On first, Batty got a fastball from Lucas Giolito and smashed it to center, just outside the Home Run Apple, for his sixth homer in 69 games.
“Just tried to swing a good swing on her. I felt comfortable,” said the 23-year-old.
“Hitting the ball hard is always my goal.”
