Mets’ Carlos Mendoza Opens Up About Ronny Mauricio’s Situation
Despite not being in the starting lineup recently, Ronny Mauricio is “staying ready” as the season nears its end.
With less than a week left in the regular season, Mauricio has increasingly become a sidelined figure for the New York Mets. Over the past several weeks, both Brett Baty and Mark Vientos have solidified their spots in the everyday lineup, leaving Mauricio’s role unclear. As a result, many are left wondering about the infielder’s future with the team.
On Wednesday, as the Mets faced the San Diego Padres in the second game of their three-game series, manager Carlos Mendoza addressed Mauricio’s lack of playing time.
Before the game, Mendoza acknowledged that the 24-year-old has been in a difficult position but praised his professionalism. “He’s staying ready,” Mendoza said, despite Mauricio having just four at-bats this month. “He’s in a tough spot, and it’s tough for me too. Over the past six weeks, with guys like Brett Baty, Mark Vientos, Jeff McNeil, and Starling Marte all playing regularly, it’s hard to find room for Mauricio. But credit to him—he’s the first guy out there doing extra work, hitting, and taking ground balls.”
Mendoza added that Mauricio has been staying sharp by getting some pinch-hit opportunities. “It’s not an easy situation for a young player, but he’s handled it like a pro,” Mendoza continued. “He understands where we’re at. I try to be as open as possible with him. His job is to stay ready, and when his name is called, he’ll be ready to go.”
Mauricio hasn’t started a game since August 29, when he played against the Miami Marlins. Since then, he’s only seen action in pinch-hit or defensive situations.
As Mendoza noted, players like Baty, Vientos, McNeil, and Marte have absorbed most of the playing time, which has left Mauricio on the outside looking in.
Despite his limited opportunities, Mauricio’s talent is still evident. In 57 games this season, he has hit six home runs and driven in 10 RBIs, with some of his homers coming in key moments.
While it’s unclear how much playing time Mauricio will get in the short term or what his future with the Mets holds, he remains focused and ready for any opportunity that arises.
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