​Ryan Clifford represented the Mets as their sole participant in today’s All-Star Futures Game. Although he did not start, he took the field at first base for the fifth, sixth, and seventh innings. He managed one plate appearance in the sixth inning, drawing a six-pitch walk against Athletics prospect Jamie Arnold. Shortly after, Clifford was doubled off first base on a line drive by Kayson Cunningham of the Diamondbacks’ system, fielded by Guardians prospect Ralphy Velázquez.
In the proverbial “of course” department, the fans at Citizens Bank Park—home of the Philadelphia Phillies and this year’s All-Star festivities—let their feelings be known, booing Clifford as he stepped to the plate in the sixth. It’s one thing to root for a team’s uniform, but another entirely to root against a player from the minor leagues who is part of that same organization’s broader pipeline.
Clifford, who the Mets acquired along with Drew Gilbert in the blockbuster trade that sent Justin Verlander to the Astros near the 2023 deadline, carries tantalizing power potential. The challenge for him is translating that raw thump into a more well-rounded game. He currently sits at a .196/.283/.395 line with 16 home runs, one triple, and 12 doubles, complemented by 129 strikeouts and 38 walks. Those numbers illustrate a player with significant individual upside but still line drive gaps to close and plate discipline to sharpen.
With Pete Alonso no longer anchoring the Mets at first base, the organization faces questions about how to fortify that position over the long haul. Clifford’s progress as a more three-dimensional hitter and defender could play a crucial role in the Mets’ future plans. If he can consistently translate power into improved on-base skills and refine his defensive reads at first, he could become a more durable option at the position in the majors. For now, the Futures Game showcased both his power ceiling and the developmental work that remains, underscoring why he remains a central figure in the Mets’ ongoing effort to rebuild a more complete offensive profile.
In the context of team-building and organizational depth, Clifford’s growth remains a key storyline in New York’s ongoing pursuit of a competitive, multi-faceted lineup. As the Mets chart a path back to contention, the emphasis on polishing his approach at the plate and refining his defensive versatility could determine whether he evolves into a cornerstone of the Mets’ first-base plans or serves as a valuable piece in a broader, veteran-influenced roster strategy.