Mark Vientos, the third baseman for the New York Mets, finds himself facing a challenging phase in his career as the Major League Baseball trade deadline nears. Despite a spectacular 2024 season, the 25-year-old has experienced a downturn in performance and playing time this year, sparking fresh chatter about potential trades involving him.
Decline in Vientos’ Offensive Performance During 2025 Season
Following an impressive 2024 campaign where Vientos hit 27 home runs in the regular season and added five more during the playoffs, expectations were high for him to maintain a key role in the Mets’ lineup. However, this year, his offensive numbers have fallen significantly, with a batting average of .226, just seven home runs, 31 RBIs, and a .638 OPS, all noticeably lower than last season’s output. His strikeout rate has increased from 14.1% to 9.1%, and Baseball Savant metrics place his expected slugging percentage around the 30th percentile, reflecting a clear drop in impact at the plate.
Vientos himself acknowledged this shift and the mindset behind it, stating,
“I think I was trying to be someone I wasn’t, now I’m refocusing on what I’m good at, which is hitting the ball hard and driving it well”
—Mark Vientos
This reveals his intention to return to a more natural approach, leveraging his strengths rather than forcing a different style.
Trade Rumors Surrounding Vientos’ Future with the Mets
As the trade deadline approaches, speculation mounts about whether the Mets will keep Vientos or include him in a deal. Sources indicate that while the team values his numerous years of contractual control, they remain open to trading him if it means acquiring a player who can have an immediate impact. However, the Mets appear cautious about sacrificing their top prospects and consider Vientos a manageable option to move if necessary.
On his part, Vientos remains undeterred by the constant trade rumors, expressing a focus on self-improvement with the comment,
“Every year I’m in trade rumors, I don’t care anymore, I just want to get better”
—Mark Vientos
His manager, Carlos Mendoza, echoed this confidence, stating,
“He is not happy with his production, but he understands that he has the opportunity to help us win games, he keeps working, striving and making adjustments”
—Carlos Mendoza
These remarks highlight Vientos’ persistent effort to contribute positively despite challenging circumstances.
Persisting Through Challenges and Looking Ahead
Beyond statistics, Mark Vientos embodies a player dedicated to fighting for his spot, even amid adversity. He has openly shared feelings of not always being supported or counted on throughout his career, saying,
“I feel like I’ve never been someone who was loved. Last year was the first time I felt support, I was always that guy that no one counted on”
—Mark Vientos
This candid admission sheds light on the mental and emotional hurdles he has faced alongside his on-field struggles.
Regardless of whether Vientos remains with the Mets or moves on through a trade, his focus remains fixed on improving his performance and proving his value. As the trade deadline passes, his trajectory will be a key storyline for fans and analysts closely watching both his career and the Mets’ roster moves this season.