He showed up to spring training 17 pounds lighter in an attempt to show his dedication to the team and help improve his play. In 34 at bats so far this spring, Anderson has hit .265 with three RBIs and one run scored.
Anderson, in regards to time in the field, will likely only serve as a backup first baseman. At the plate, he'll be the Mets go-to guy for pinch hitting duties. That is, if he makes the team.
With Nick Evans and Fernando Tatis, flashing the glove at first base, along with Jeremy Reed, it seems Anderson has more competition than he anticipated. Is it worth it to the Mets to keep on a second string backup purely for pinch hitting duties?
| Year | As Starter (H/PA) | As Sub/PH | Total |
| 2008 | .221 (17/82) | .197 (12/69) | .210 (29/151) |
| 2007 | .304 (14/53) | .286 (14/53) | .295 (28/106) |
| 2006 | .317 (64/224) | .247 (19/88) | .287 (83/312) |
| 2005 | .251 (42/180) | .294 (20/80) | .264 (62/260) |
As his playing time diminishes, due to either ability or injuries, Anderson's batting average drops.
I asked the Twitter-audience a simple question: Is Marlon Anderson obsolete? Here's what I got...
- @letsgoduke: let me put it this way: yes. nick evans instead!
- @fscker: i hate to say, yes
- @samtpage: Marlon Anderson sucks, if that's what you mean.
With players able to fill his role on the field, the Mets may be able to sacrifice his "pinch hitting abilities" in favor of someone else.