IT’S CLEAR WHAT THE METS MUST DO WITH FRANCISCO ALVAREZ: ‘HE’S A STAR’

There’s controversy over how the Mets will handle their catching logjam, and specifically whether Francisco Alvarez may be sent down since he’s the only one of four catchers with options. But there’s really no reason it’s controversial. At least not yet.

Alvarez leads all catchers in most offensive categories in May (1.046 OPS in the month). They certainly aren’t sending him down when Tomas Nido returns, and Omar Narvaez may yet be two weeks away. Unless Alvarez suddenly falls into a deep slump, it’s clear what has to happen.

“Give Alvarez the job, and don’t look back,” one NL scout said. “Alvarez should be the starter and Narvaez should be backup to mentor Alvarez.”

One rival exec put it this way: “He’s a star.”

One question: Did Alvarez’s quick rise take the Mets by surprise? Despite his ranking as baseball’s No. 1 or 2 prospect (him and Gunnar Henderson), the Mets signed Narvaez to a two-year deal and gave backup Nido two years, too. Nido received pocket change, but his multiyear deal certainly surprised.

One rival executive says Mets catcher Francisco Alvarez is “a star.”Robert Sabo for the NY Post Francisco Alvarez in the Mets dugout after hitting a home run against the Cubs on May 24, 2023.USA TODAY Sports via Reuters Con

Ronny Mauricio continues to tear it up at Triple-A Syracuse (but has 10 errors as he adjusts from shortstop to second base). If he ascends, the Mets – the oldest team to start 2023 – may play four rookies. Mark Vientos should get a shot as the everyday DH.

Alvarez and Mauricio both hired Bad Bunny as their agent. The Bunny is roiling the agent world.

2023-05-25T20:46:39Z dg43tfdfdgfd