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MLB Rumors: Justin Verlander’s Tigers return, Mets prospect on deck, Cubs extension

By Mark Powell

NEW YORK, NEW YORK - MAY 01: Justin Verlander #35 of the New York Mets looks on from the dugout against the Atlanta Braves in game two of a doubleheader at Citi Field on May 01, 2023 in New York City. (Photo by Jim McIsaac/Getty Images)
NEW YORK, NEW YORK - MAY 01: Justin Verlander #35 of the New York Mets looks on from the dugout against the Atlanta Braves in game two of a doubleheader at Citi Field on May 01, 2023 in New York City. (Photo by Jim McIsaac/Getty Images) /
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Ronny Mauricio #2 of the New York Mets, MLB Rumors
PORT ST. LUCIE, FL – MARCH 11: Ronny Mauricio #2 of the New York Mets in the dugout before a spring training baseball game against the St. Louis Cardinals at Clover Park at on March 11, 2020 in Port St. Lucie, Florida. (Photo by Rich Schultz/Getty Images) /

MLB Rumors: Mets could add another top prospect soon

The New York Mets need some offense, and they could make an addition by subtraction. If New York were to call up Ronny Mauricio, previously one of the team’s top shortstop prospects and ranked No. 90 overall by MLB Pipeline, he would play another position.

In the minor leagues, Mauricio has spent the last several games at second base, which could explain where the Mets see him playing once he’s ready to make the jump. Mauricio’s bat is not the problem, as he’s one of the more complete hitters in their system. He’d be an immediate upgrade over some regulars in the Mets lineup.

New York is ranked 17th in baseball in slugging, 19th in home runs, and 17th in ISO. So far in the minors, Mauricio is slashing .321/.363/.585 with six home runs, 16 RBI, 19 runs, and four stolen bases. He’s earned a promotion.

Shortstop is occupied by Francisco Lindor long-term, so a position change has been looming for Mauricio. Second base makes a lot of sense for now. While it’s Jeff McNeil’s primarily position, he also has experience in the outfield. A lineup with Mauricio in it would likely ask McNeil to move to the outfield, so the 22-year-old can take his spot at second base.

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