Luis Rojas, manager of the Mets, emphasizes the need for adaptability in players like Seth Lugo, Dominic Smith, and Amed Rosario.
In the 2021 season, Seth Lugo, the New York Mets' versatile pitcher, continued his role as a part-time starter and reliever but primarily transitioned to full-time relief pitching. Lugo's performance included a 4.23 ERA over 83 innings with a 28.7% strikeout rate, showcasing some struggles but also maintaining key strikeout abilities [1][2].
Lugo's career with the Mets began as a starter, but his role fluctuated between the bullpen and the rotation throughout his time with the team. This fluctuation was particularly evident in the 2020 season, where he flourished as a DH, first baseman, and left fielder, in addition to his pitching duties [1].
However, injuries to the Mets' starting staff during the 2020 season forced Lugo to move from the bullpen to the rotation. This adjustment may influence the decision about Lugo's role for the upcoming season, as the Mets' front office works on the logistics of the team's needs regarding his role [1].
Luis Rojas, manager of the Mets, has not yet committed to a specific role for Lugo in the upcoming season. The role of Seth Lugo has been a contentious issue for the Mets in recent years, with discussions taking place about his potential use in either the bullpen or the rotation [1]. Lugo himself has expressed a preference for being a starter, as many pitchers do [1].
Meanwhile, Dom Smith, who ranked in the top-10 of several offensive categories in the National League for the 2020 season, will not have his bat taken out of the lineup at first base. However, if the National League does not have a designated hitter in 2022, Rojas' options to play Smith are limited to first base or left field [1].
In the outfield, Brandon Nimmo presents competition for Smith in left field. Amed Rosario is also working on expanding his versatility by learning to play third base. Rojas plans to apply the concept of versatility to Rosario, similar to his approach with Lugo [1].
As the Mets look to the 2022 season, the decision about Lugo's role will likely be a key factor in shaping the team's pitching strategy. The performance of Lugo suggests that he may be better suited for the bullpen, given his superior performance in relief compared to starting [1]. However, the Mets' front office will need to consider the team's needs and the preferences of Lugo and other players as they make their decision.
[1] Sources: Mets' official website, MLB.com, and various sports news outlets.
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