Spring training always has a way of putting a spotlight on players fighting for their place, especially as the calendar inches closer to Opening Day and roles begin to take shape. The New York Mets are right in that part of camp, where every at-bat and every inning carries a little more weight. That is why Carlos Mendoza’s comments expressing confidence in Mark Vientos stood out, even as the results on the field have not exactly followed.
At the same time, another situation is unfolding that deserves just as much, if not more, attention. While both players are dealing with similar struggles and the same lack of roster flexibility, the impact on this season is not equal.