MLB.com recently predicted each team’s top prospect for 2027, naming Elian Peña as the New York Mets’ future star. While Peña’s impressive hitting skills warranted a $5 million signing bonus, another name is quietly rising through the Mets’ system, potentially eclipsing even Peña’s considerable potential, Jesus Baez.

Peña, a left-handed hitter with blooming power, is undoubtedly an exciting prospect. However, the buzz surrounding Baez and his ascent in prospect rankings has been impressive suggesting he may be the Mets’ true gem.

Beyond Elian Peña, Jesus Baez could be the Mets’ true number 1 prospect in 2027

Baez, a shortstop/third baseman, has seen his stock skyrocket in prospect rankings. Baseball Prospectus ranks him as the Mets’ No. 6 prospect, while Baseball America goes even further, placing him third and even including him in their top 100 prospects overall. This meteoric rise is fueled by a combination of raw power, an elite arm, and improving plate discipline.

Scouts rave about Baez’s bat speed and in-game power. While initially considered an aggressive hitter, he has improved his plate discipline, reducing his strikeout rate. This refinement, coupled with his natural gifts, makes him a truly tantalizing prospect.

At just 19 years old, Baez was enjoying a breakout 2024 season before a torn meniscus in his right knee tragically ended his campaign. Before the injury, he tore through the lower minors, hitting .262/.335/.447 with 11 home runs, 17 doubles, and nine stolen bases in just 72 games across A-ball St. Lucie and High-A Brooklyn. Impressively, his xwOBA placed him in the 100th percentile in 263 plate appearances, showcasing his exceptional offensive potential.

While Peña’s power is exciting, Baez’s developing offensive game gives him a higher ceiling. The knee injury is a setback, but if Baez returns healthy and continues his development, he has the potential to become not just the Mets’ top prospect, but one of the best in all of baseball by 2027. Peña is a name to watch, but don’t sleep on Jesus Baez. He might be the Mets’ next big thing.