We interrupt the public flogging of David Stearns to mention:

Elements of “run prevention” are flourishing, particularly in the outfield with Carson Benge and especially A.J. Ewing motoring around center — not to mention how much more comfortable and natural Brett Baty looks at third.

Juan Soto revealed Benge and Ewing call each other “psychopath” for their willingness to race into walls and Carlos Mendoza said of the duo eliminating extra-base hits and extra runs/pitches, “They are changing the game with the way they are playing defense.”

Stearns had a reputation of churning through options and sculpting strong pens in Milwaukee, and the rise of Huascar Brazobán, emergence of Austin Warren and return of A.J. Minter has deepened the quantity and quality of the Mets relief group.