Mets' Elite Prospect Has Shined So Far In Spring Training; Could He Join New York In 2024?

The New York Mets certainly have a bright future.

The 2023 campaign didn't go as the Mets planned, but it may end up being a positive in the long run. New York ended up being one of the biggest sellers ahead of the 2023 Major League Baseball Trade Deadline and deal superstar duo Max Scherzer and Justin Verlander.

New York received No. 1 prospect Luisangel Acuña and No. 2 prospect Drew Gilbert and both should end up playing a major role with the big league club in the not-so-distant future.

Spring Training officially is here and fans have been able to get an extended look at both. It's unclear when they will make the jump to the big leagues but Gilbert certainly has impressed in camp, according to SNY's Andy Martino. 

"Now to the field, where no player has captured attention in the early games like Gilbert," Martino said. "The outfielder, acquired by (Billy Eppler) and (Steve Cohen) along with corner (infield/outfield) prospect Ryan Clifford last July for Verlander, has an electric skill set and a precocious approach at the plate. Like Daniel Murphy, a fellow left-handed hitter, Gilbert tries to pull the ball until he is in a two-strike count, then shortens up and aims to use the whole field.

"The most impressive at-bat of early camp came Tuesday when Gilbert batted with the bases loaded, fell behind 0-2, and fought off a slider into left field to drive in two runs. Defensively, the former pitcher has flashed what one evaluator calls a "plus to double-plus arm." He has the speed for center field and the arm for right field. That’s a good problem to have."

Gilbert shined with the Double-A Binghamton Rumble Ponies after being acquired by the Mets. He's just 23 years old so it wouldn't be surprising to see him spend the entire 2024 season in the minors, but if he can continue to shine, maybe a late-season call-up could be in the cards?