Vientos is a young piece in the mix; his name surfaces in discussions of roster balance and potential trades to clear a defensive logjam. He represents upside that could be valuable in a defense-first package without sacrificing offense long-term.

Vientos is discussed as a potential trade piece or roster piece to balance offense and defense while managing positional flexibility.

Mets could move Mark Vientos across the diamond to improve defense at third while Alonso tests free agency, potentially expanding Vientos’ role and fantasy appeal if he factors into 2026 plans.

Vientos faced lineup decisions, with the defense push and DH role discussion signaling a possible demotion to bench or minor-league options, and the Mets weighing him for 2026.

<p>Vientos faces more defensive responsibility and lineup responsibility as Baty is sidelined. His bat provides power, but the defensive questions at third add risk; his performance could determine how the Mets deploy the hot corner late in the season.</p>