New York Mets GM Billy Eppler to Watch Syracuse Mets in Person

Mets general manager Billy Eppler has traveled to Moosic, P.A. on Thursday to watch the Syracuse Mets take on the Scranton/Wilkes-Barre RailRiders, per SNY's Andy Martino.

Eppler will get an up close look at Brett Baty's defensive improvements, as well as other players such as Mark Vientos, Ronny Mauricio and others.

According to Martino, the Mets organization didn't feel that Baty was ready to play third base in the major leagues as of the end of Spring Training. However, they were encouraged by his work ethic. Baty made reaction plays well, but his footwork, agility and range still needed work.

But there are now other factors at play.

While the initial plan was for Eduardo Escobar to play third base this season, while Baty worked on his defense in the minor leagues, Escobar is off to a rough start with a .348 OPS. As for Baty, he's 9-for-27 with three homers in Triple-A.

If Escobar doesn't soon turn things around at the plate, Baty might force the Mets' hand. The Mets would have to continue developing his defense in the big-leagues, but they might have no other choice if he continues to rake.

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