Mets Roundup, Sept 16: Alvarez's Defense, Lindor's HR Chase, Stearns' Move

[Grand Central Mets]

Here is some of the latest Mets analysis from around the internet. Focus is on Rojas' power surge, Alonso's return and first base struggles, Alvarez's defensive improvements, Lindor's 300-homer chase, and Stearns' decision to let Alonso go.

• Mets' top prospect Rojas makes power-packed statement in Triple-A debut (MLB.com). Argues Rojas made a power-packed Triple-A debut with a home run and hit, showcasing his breakout season. Key evidence: 105.6 mph homer, 25th of the season, 10 since joining Mets.
• Alonso's homecoming highlights Mets' glaring need at 1st base (MLB.com). Argues the Mets struggle to replace Alonso at first base, citing Polanco's poor performance and limited free agent options. Alonso's return highlights the team's failure to find a suitable successor, with their first-base OPS dropping from second to 29th.
• How Mets believe they’ve unlocked Francisco Alvarez’s defensive potential: ‘Changed the game for him’ (New York Post). Argues the Mets believe they've unlocked Francisco Alvarez's defensive potential through posture adjustments and pregame routines, improving their catching metrics and pairing him with Torrens. Key evidence includes framing runs, run value, and caught-stealing rates.
• David Lennon: Mets' Francisco Lindor could end uncharacteristic season with big blast (Newsday $$$). Argues Francisco Lindor is on track to hit his 300th home run, potentially becoming the third shortstop with 300+ homers behind Ripken and A-Rod. Notes his 291 shortstop homers, recent 30-homer average, and 2022-25 performance, with a 3031 contract ensuring he can reach 300 while with the Mets.
• Pete Alonso’s return showed why his departure remains the defining decision of David Stearns’ tenure (The Athletic $$$). Argues Stearns' decision to let Alonso leave remains his defining move, citing fan backlash and Alonso's strong performance with the Orioles, while noting Stearns' philosophy of avoiding player decline through extensions.

[Brock Beauchamp]

I reduced the number of paywalled items in these, capping them at two.