The Mets have made some intriguing roster decisions today, headlined by the move to option infielder Ronny Mauricio to Triple-A Syracuse. Joining him is right-hander Joey Gerber, while non-roster pitchers Brandon Waddell and Mike Baumann head to minor league camp.
Mauricio's move might hint at the Mets' strategy for their Opening Day roster. According to Joel Sherman, Bo Bichette is set to play shortstop in an upcoming game, suggesting the Mets might start the season without a traditional backup shortstop.
Bichette, who was primarily a shortstop before a knee injury, spent last season splitting time between second base and designated hitter for the Blue Jays. Despite concerns about his defensive prowess, the Mets signed him for his offensive skills, even with Francisco Lindor and Marcus Semien anchoring the middle infield.
Now, Bichette is poised to be the regular third baseman, potentially stepping in as a backup shortstop if needed. Lindor, recovering from hamate surgery, is expected to be ready for Opening Day.
Mauricio's demotion could indicate the Mets' confidence in this setup, potentially paving the way for prospect Carson Benge and keeping Mike Tauchman in the mix.
The Mets' bench seems largely set, with backup catcher Luis Torrens, corner infielder Mark Vientos, and outfielder Tyrone Taylor likely securing spots. All three are out of options. Mauricio was a candidate for the final bench spot, but his move changes the equation.
David Stearns, the president of baseball operations, has been vocal about Benge's chances to make the team. With Tauchman signed to a minor league deal and MJ Melendez on a split deal, competition is fierce. Benge has impressed with a .406/.472/.500 line this spring, while Tauchman has posted a strong .280/.419/.520 line, making the decision tough for the Mets.
Tauchman has an opt-out clause effective March 25th if he's not on the roster, which could lead him to explore other opportunities. Keeping him would mean embracing the shortstop plan, allowing Benge to potentially start in right field on Opening Day and keeping the Prospect Promotion Incentive alive.
This approach could affect utility player Vidal Bruján, who is out of options. With Mauricio sent down, Bruján might secure the final bench spot, but that could mean losing Tauchman. It's a delicate balance the Mets need to navigate in the coming days.
As for Mauricio, once a top prospect, his development hit a snag with a torn ACL in 2024. He returned in 2025 but mostly played a bench role, hitting .226/.293/.369 over 61 games.
Sending him to the minors could provide much-needed regular playing time, though he has just one option season left. If he stays down for at least 20 days, he'll be out of options in 2027.