The New York Mets have begun the 2024 season with a disappointing record of 0-4. Despite their poor start, they’re not at the bottom of the NL East, as the Miami Marlins have fared even worse with a 0-5 record. The Mets were anticipated to have a potent offense featuring players like Pete Alonso, Francisco Lindor, Jeff McNeil, Brandon Nimmo, J.D. Martinez, Francisco Alvarez, and Starling Marte. However, their pitching, particularly with Kodai Senga sidelined due to injury, raised some doubts.
Contrary to expectations, the Mets’ performance so far has been a reversal of these predictions. Although they boast the sixth-best ERA in baseball at 3.16, they have scored the fewest runs in the league, managing only eight in four games. Mets insider Danny Abriano, reporting for SNY, has highlighted three key players who are struggling significantly: Brandon Nimmo, Francisco Lindor, and Jeff McNeil. Together, they have only managed three hits out of 44 at-bats to kick off the season. Nimmo is 1-for-16 with one walk, Lindor is 1-for-16 with two walks, and McNeil is 1-for-12 with no walks.
SNY Mets tweeted, emphasizing that despite the rough start, the offensive talents of players like Nimmo, Lindor, and McNeil should eventually shine through. However, immediate changes in approach are necessary to turn the tide.
Brandon Nimmo, Francisco Lindor, and Jeff McNeil are a combined 3-for-44 to start the season:
🔹 Nimmo: 1-for-16, 1 BB
🔹 Lindor: 1-for-16, 2 BB
🔹 McNeil: 1-for-12, 0 BB"As ugly as things have looked over the first four games, Nimmo, Lindor, McNeil, and the rest of the… pic.twitter.com/kRk3LFBz1H
— SNY Mets (@SNY_Mets) April 2, 2024
Nimmo, Lindor, and McNeil are undeniably among the top hitters on the Mets roster. Nimmo is known for his exceptional ability to get on base, often boasting OBPs nearing .400, alongside moderate power with 15-20 home runs per season, and a knack for scoring runs consistently. Lindor stands out as a genuine star player, holding the distinction of being the highest-paid position player on the team and achieving a remarkable 30-30 season in 2023. McNeil, a former batting champion, brings his own impressive credentials to the plate.
Despite their pedigrees, these talented batters have struggled early on in the season. However, as noted by Abriano, they have the potential to turn things around. They must actively seek out solutions and be proactive in their approach. Whether the Mets will secure a win this week remains uncertain, but the growing impatience and dwindling faith among fans highlight the urgency for improvement.