Defensive play maintains A.J. Ewing’s spot in Mets lineup

New York Mets rookie outfielder A.J. Ewing continues to earn playing time due to his defensive performance despite a significant offensive decline since the All-Star break. After an initial surge of success that included a.789 OPS in his first 222 plate appearances, Ewing has struggled with a.213 average and 61 strikeouts. Interim manager Andy Green has moved the 22-year-old to the bottom of the order but maintains faith in his approach at the plate. Statistical analysis highlights Ewing as a top-flight defender, noting a 2.55 range factor that exceeds the MLB average. This defensive consistency, combined with the team's focus on developing younger players, secures his position while the organization waits for his batting to stabilize.

• 7:38 PMYahoo Sports — Glove Over Bat: The Surprising Metric Keeping A.J. Ewing in the Mets Lineup