Track Record: Baty was one of the best high school hitters in a loaded 2019 draft, but his age—he turned 20 in November of his draft year—pushed him down the board to the Mets at 12th overall. He showed impressive raw power in his pro debut but struck out enough to introduce skepticism. Baty got into better shape for 2020 and impressed the Mets at the alternate training site. A loud full-season debut in 2021, which included a .292/.382/.473 batting line with 12 home runs in 91 games as he reached Double-A, validated his hard work.
Scouting Report: Baty is a disciplined hitter with feel for the barrel, incredible raw power and greater athletic ability than his physical 6-foot-3 frame suggests. While he will show double-plus raw power in batting practice, Baty focuses on making hard contact to all fields in games. He is unafraid to work deep counts and has a chance to hit for a high average with plus on-base ability. Scouts are optimistic that Baty can get to above-average and possibly plus power, despite a batting profile that was heavy on ground balls in 2021. That's because he hits the ball hard consistently, and his doubles should turn into home runs as his batting approach continues to mature against advanced pitchers. Baty's conditioning work paid off on defense, where he showed greater quickness at third base, a strong, accurate arm and an ability to throw from different angles. He tried his hand at left field and showed the potential to be playable there.
The Future: Baty made a ton of progress in 2021 and looks like a future regular, potentially an impact one. His rise to Double-A and trial in left field indicate he is in the Mets' plans for 2022, with an MLB debut possible in the summer.
Scouting Grades:Hit: 60. Power: 55. Speed: 50. Fielding: 50. Arm: 60.
