Third Baseman Mark Vientos Says Goodbye to New York on “X” After Signing Deal with Athletics

In a heartfelt message posted on “X” (formerly known as Twitter), third baseman Mark Vientos bid farewell to New York after officially signing a deal with the Oakland Athletics. The 23-year-old, who spent several years developing within the New York Mets’ farm system, made his major league debut with the team in 2022, and his move to the A’s marks the end of his tenure with the franchise.

Vientos expressed his gratitude to the Mets organization, fans, and his teammates in his emotional post. “New York, it’s been an honor. I’ll always carry the lessons and experiences I gained here with me. Thank you to my teammates, the staff, and, most importantly, the fans who supported me every step of the way. I’m excited for the next chapter in Oakland,” he wrote.

The Mets drafted Vientos in the second round of the 2017 MLB Draft, and since then, he quickly rose through the ranks of the organization as one of its top prospects. Known for his power-hitting abilities and strong defensive skills at third base, Vientos was a key contributor to the Mets’ minor league teams, earning numerous accolades for his performance. However, his journey to the major leagues was not without challenges, and he spent several seasons bouncing between the minors and the Mets’ big league roster.

During his time with the Mets, Vientos showed flashes of promise, particularly at the plate, but struggled to find consistent playing time. In 2023, he was involved in the Mets’ efforts to contend in the National League East but was overshadowed by other big names on the roster. Despite this, his potential was undeniable, and his departure marks the end of an era for the team.

The A’s, who have been in rebuilding mode in recent years, see Vientos as a promising young talent who could help revitalize their roster. With the team in need of a reliable third baseman and power bat, Vientos fits the bill as someone who could grow with the organization. His arrival in Oakland could signal a fresh start for the Athletics, who are looking to make strides as they focus on developing their younger players.

Vientos’ deal with Oakland is reportedly a multi-year contract, though the exact terms have not yet been disclosed. It is expected that he will compete for a starting position in the A’s infield, joining a growing group of young players looking to make an impact in the coming seasons. His ability to hit for power and play solid defense makes him an intriguing piece for Oakland’s future.

In his farewell message, Vientos also hinted at the challenges he faced during his time in New York, acknowledging that the road to the major leagues was not always smooth. “There were moments of frustration, but those moments are what made me who I am today,” he wrote. “I’m ready to start a new chapter and continue growing as a player.”

Mets fans have expressed mixed emotions regarding Vientos’ departure. While many acknowledge his potential and wish him the best, others are disappointed that the team couldn’t find a way to maximize his talent. For Vientos, however, the move to Oakland presents an opportunity for a more consistent role and the chance to prove himself in a new environment.

As Vientos moves west, Mets fans will be watching closely to see how he performs with the A’s. Meanwhile, his departure leaves a hole in the Mets’ infield that will likely be filled by a combination of internal and external options as the team looks to bolster its lineup for the future.

For Vientos, it’s the beginning of a new chapter, and fans across baseball will be eager to see how his journey unfolds with the Athletics.