Potential X-factors for the 2023 New York Mets

Although Vogelbach is a solid option, the Mets still need to determine who will serve as their DH against left-handers. Darin Ruf, acquired at the trade deadline from San Francisco, made virtually no impact in New York, hitting .152 in 28 games with the team.

In the offseason, the Mets signed outfielder Tommy Pham, who posted a .784 OPS against lefties with Cincinnati and Boston last season, as a potential candidate. When third baseman Eduardo Escobar isn't playing in the field, it would be wise to have him get DH reps. Escobar had a 130 wRC+ against lefties a season ago.

The top prospects

New York's top prospects, Francisco Álvarez and Brett Baty (MLB Pipeline's Nos. 3 and 21 prospects, respectively), made their major league debuts last season with little impact. 

Álvarez, a catcher, played five games at the end of the season and had just two hits. The third baseman Baty played in 11 games before suffering a torn ulnar collateral ligament in his thumb. Baty had a .184 batting average, two home runs, and five RBI.

Out of the two, Baty is likely to make a bigger impact this year, as there's a good chance Álvarez won't make the Opening Day roster. GM Billy Eppler has stated that the club isn't rushing to bring him up while he works on his defense.

Considering the Mets failed to sign a particular free agent this offseason, Baty must show signs of progression. Cohen stunned the baseball world with his late-night deal with SS Carlos Correa, which ultimately fell through. Correa would've moved to third base if the deal went through, blocking Baty from his natural position. 

Additionally, USA Today's Bob Nightengale reported the Mets wouldn't have hesitated to sign third baseman Manny Machado next winter, but he agreed to an extension with San Diego on Sunday. With Correa and Machado out of mind for the Mets, Baty can focus on contributing to the team instead of listening to rumors about his future.