Mets' Key to Hot Start Isn't What You Think
By Reed Wallach
The New York Mets currently have the best record in the National League, paced by excellent play from all units.
The Mets have the best on-base percentage in baseball and the third best team ERA that have led to their 16-7 start. New York made the necessary signings in the offseason by bringing in the likes of Starling Marte and Eduardo Escobar in addition to Max Scherzer to offset the Jacob DeGrom injury. However, the biggest development has been the Mets fielding metrics.
The Mets have committed just seven errors in 22 games this year. That’s the fewest in the National League and the third-fewest in the majors.
— Deesha (@DeeshaThosar) May 1, 2022
The Mets ability to lock up in the field has helped pace their fantastic start. The Mets have an 81% success rate on balls in the field of play, fourth best in all of baseball, per baseballsavant.com.
Yes, the Mets offense has been high powered and the pitching staff is holding up their end of the bargain despite some Spring Training injuries, but it's the defense that has been the backbone of this roster and the underrated drive to the Mets lofty postseason odds at WynnBET Sportsbook:
New York Mets National League Odds
- Make the Playoffs: Yes -900/No +500
- NL East: -140
- National League: +400
- World Series: +750
The Mets made some big additions in the offseason and the biggest impact has been Marte in the outfield. While he isn't hitting to his potential, his play in the field can't be understated.
What a catch by Starling Marte in right field. I did not think he had any chance at this off the bat. The ball hung up for only 2.5 seconds. pic.twitter.com/9bceK2Z6Nn
— Anthony DiComo (@AnthonyDiComo) May 2, 2022
We'll see if the Mets sweet hitting and pitching can keep up, but the real insight can be seen in the field as the team continues to get out of innings on defense with their gloves.