Entering the 2025 season, the New York Mets appeared to have third base set in stone. Mark Vientos had enjoyed a breakout season in 2024, hitting 27 home runs in just 111 games while registering a 133 wRC+,

Baty went 2-for-4 with a walk and a solo home run in Friday's 7-5 extra-innings loss to the Dodgers.

It was his second consecutive night with a home run and came after Carlos Mendoza said he won’t force Baty into the lineup, even as he tries to get the infielder playing time following his recent call-up from Triple-A Syracuse due to Jesse Winker’s stint on the injured list.