Mets appear ready to bet on youth with latest outfield shakeup

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The New York Mets have reportedly promoted outfield prospect Nick Morabito. It may appear like a routine roster move on the surface, but there's a hidden message behind how the team is looking forward after a poor start to the season.

The news, first reported by Will Sammon, came just hours after Austin Slater was designated for assignment. It signals a priority shift within the organization.

After seeing Tommy Pham and Slater both fail to make their mark as platoon hitters, the Mets are moving on from the veterans to give opportunities to their young outfielders. It seems the Mets are done with short-term fixes and are ready to embrace what their internal development looks like.

With Carson Benge and AJ Ewing assuming everyday roles in the outfield, the Mets' message can't be any clearer.

MORE: Mets chose to DFA Austin Slater for this simple reason

Why Nick Morabito was promoted by Mets?

Nick Morabito was selected in the second round of the 2022 MLB draft. He started this season at Triple-A Syracuse and did really well, batting .253 with a .364 on-base percentage, four home runs and 14 steals in 16 attempts.

While he doesn't have extremely strong power numbers, his upside lies in speed, plate discipline and defensive versatility.

It remains to be seen how the move changes the Mets' philosophy not only in the outfield but also in other areas and positions.