New York Mets show risks of universal designated hitter

The New York Mets have played just two games this season, and yet it has been a painful year. Their hitters have already been struck by pitches four times as Washington Nationals’ hurlers have thrown inside with abandon. While Francisco Lindor being hit in the face will receive the most attention, James McCann has already been hit twice thus far.

This is not just an issue between the Mets and Nationals. In just two days, 15 different players have been hit by a pitch. Eight of those players, accounting for nine HPBs, are in the National League.

New York Mets a sign of what could be coming

There are several potential factors for this spate of wildness. Based on timing, this is really the fourth week of spring training and pitchers would still be working on their command at this point. Pitchers just are not as sharp as they would be normally.

It is also possible that the universal designated hitter is a factor as well. Starting pitchers do not need to worry about facing a fastball in the ribs if they hit a member of the opposition anymore, at least in the National League. It is now possible to throw inside with impunity and without repercussion. Maybe someone else on their team gets hit, but the pitcher is not the one wearing the bruise.

Yes, it is just two games into the season. It is far too early to really have a grasp as to what the season will be like and if this spate of hit batters will continue unabated. But it certainly bears watching, especially as teams such as the Nationals look to make statements of their own.

The New York Mets have already been hit four times by pitches. It is fair to wonder if the universal designated hitter is a factor.