Flying Under the Radar: Mets’ Hidden Gems and Their Potential Impact in 2025
In the dynamic world of New York Mets baseball, where stars like Juan Soto, Francisco Lindor, and Pete Alonso often steal the limelight, there exists a trio of unsung heroes quietly preparing to make a significant impact in the upcoming 2025 season. While the spotlight shines on the marquee names, these overlooked players harbor immense potential to shape the Mets’ destiny in ways yet to be fully appreciated.
Jose Butto: The Versatile Arm
Among these hidden gems, pitcher Jose Butto emerges as a compelling figure poised to step into a crucial role within the Mets’ bullpen for the 2025 campaign. Despite fleeting appearances in 2022 and 2023, it was not until the previous season that Butto truly showcased his capabilities, hinting at the pivotal role he could play in the upcoming year.
Throughout his 74 innings pitched across 30 games, a versatile Butto seamlessly transitioned between starter and long reliever duties, delivering commendable performances that underscore his value to the team. Sporting a stellar 2.55 ERA, 3.83 FIP, and a commendable 1.07 WHIP, Butto’s pitching prowess did not go unnoticed.
Adept at striking out opponents with a 26.9% K%, Butto’s pitching finesse was evident in his ability to keep opponents at bay, with a 0.73 HR/9 rate. While his control wavered at times, reflected in a 12.9% walk rate, his overall performance remained steadfast, painting a picture of a pitcher on the cusp of greatness.
Noteworthy is Butto’s adaptability, as his pitching repertoire thrived in the bullpen environment. Transitioning from a starter to a reliever saw his effectiveness surge, with his Stuff+ climbing from 89 to an impressive 96. Armed with a diverse arsenal, including a four-seamer, sinker, change-up, slider, and sweeper, Butto’s average fastball velocity of 94.2 MPH soared even higher when operating in relief, clocking in at an impressive 95 MPH.
The statistics further highlight Butto’s versatility and reliability in both roles, with a 3.08 ERA, 4.17 FIP, and 1.13 WHIP as a starter, contrasting with a stellar 2.12 ERA, 3.47 FIP, and 1.00 WHIP out of the bullpen. Such flexibility provides the Mets with a wealth of strategic options in leveraging Butto’s multifaceted talents in the upcoming season, underscoring his significance as a pivotal X-factor in the team’s quest for success.
As the Mets’ 2025 season looms on the horizon, the emergence of Jose Butto as a hidden force within the team’s ranks symbolizes the depth of talent waiting to be unveiled, hinting at a season brimming with surprises and potential triumphs beyond the realm of the familiar stars that adorn the Mets’ constellation.
