Let's talk about Teruaki Sato

[Centerfield]

29 minutes ago, Gwreck said:

.761 OPS would put you at #68 among all MLB hitters in 2026.

 

Higher than Wilson Contreras, Jackson Merrill, Jose Ramirez, Ketel Marte, Francisco Lindor, Manny Machado, Vlad Guerrero Jr., etc etc. 

[MFS62]

I just read that he’s just 27 years old- coming into his “ bill james prime years”. There still a lot of tread on those tires.
later”

[Johnny Lunchbucket]

He strikes out an awful lot

[Cowtipper]

Teruaki? Well now I'm hungry! 

[The Hot Corner]

6 hours ago, Johnny Lunchbucket said:

He strikes out an awful lot

He should right in with the Mets offense then.  However, he does hit more than .235 and has an OBP of over .300 (at least in Japan) so that would be a little out of character for the Mets.

[Centerfield]

The more I think about this, the more I think Sato (or some significant bat at 1B) is the real wild card to their offseason. 
 

You figure the Mets will add two starters of varying degrees. Hopefully one is Skubal. They’ll probably add two established bullpen arms. 
 

Of the three lineup spots available (assuming Bichette opts in), I think they’ll leave 2B for one of the prospects. They’ll leave DH for Polanco. Which leaves only 1B for them to add a significant upgrade. 
 

It doesn’t have to be Sato. In fact Sato may not even be the answer. But if they don’t add at least one middle of the order bat, we are looking at likely another lacking offense.