Harrison Bader will not be in the starting lineup for the first game of the New York Mets’ doubleheader against the Los Angeles Dodgers on Tuesday.
Tyrone Taylor will start in center field and bat fifth in Bader’s place. This appears to be a rest day for Bader, who has been a regular in the Mets’ lineup lately.
Bader has been performing reasonably well in May, batting .281/.361/.391 over 21 games. However, the Mets have a crowded outfield with players like Brandon Nimmo, Starling Marte, and Tyrone Taylor also vying for playing time.
Mets manager Carlos Mendoza has said that Bader is a crucial part of the team as their center fielder, but the lineup decisions have been more matchup-related as they try to get everyone playing time. Bader has expressed that he is “bothered” by the reduced playing time, but he respects the team’s decisions and is focused on contributing whenever he gets the chance.
While Bader will not start Game 1, the reports indicate he is likely to be back in the lineup for Game 2 of the doubleheader. [4][5] The Mets are aiming to keep their players fresh as they take on the Dodgers in this important series.