Mets highly touted prospect starting to break out

New York Mets Triple-A affiliate Syracuse has recently encountered some challenges. Yet, a palpable excitement exists around a burgeoning talent in their ranks. 

While players such as DJ Stewart and Logan Porter have faced their struggles, 20-year-old Drew Gilbert stands as a beacon of hope and potential. 

His significant strides in the game are inspiring and suggest he may soon make his mark in the major leagues, bringing fresh energy and talent to the forefront.

Drew Gilbert continues to hit for power

The Mets lack many prospects considered power hitters for the team’s future. Luisangel Acuna stands at 5-foot-8, while Jett Williams, the highest-rated position player in the Mets’ farm system, measures only 5-foot-6, and Drew Gilbert is slightly taller at 5-foot-9. However, their shorter height doesn’t necessarily preclude them from being capable of hitting home runs.

After Sunday, Gilbert has hit three home runs in his last five games. Before this, he had just one in 26 games. Although he has only hit .212 in those 31 contests, Gilbert’s recent power spike may indicate what is in store.

Another combination of power and speed

Gilbert may never become as good a power hitter as other Mets outfielders, such as Brandon Nimmo. But Gilbert can hit home runs, for average and run well on the bases. In the future, New York could use a speedy outfielder with the ability to hit for some power. Since he is just 20, the chances of a call-up this season are low. Gilbert could prove himself able to come up with the Amazins as soon as 2025.

Mets president David Stearns seeks to make New York a powerful baseball team with more than just money. He also seeks a formidable farm system, including Williams, Gilbert and Brandon Sproat. Although Stearns is questionable for not going all in before the trade deadline, he may have wanted to keep a robust farm system. Other teams, such as the San Diego Padres, showed how expensive it was to get a powerful relief pitcher or starter. The Mets decided to settle for pitchers like Paul Blackburn and Huascar Brazoban.

Gilbert has shown what he is capable of. In 116 games in the Houston Astros minor league system, he hit 18 homers and drove in 59 runs with 26 doubles. This shows his speed and power combination may be lethal. 

The Mets would love another speedster on the bases like Lindor. His talent and potential could make a significant impact, positioning him as a critical player to watch in the coming seasons. With the proper development and opportunities, Gilbert could become one of baseball’s major talking points.