The Mets' recent struggles on the mound and at key lineup spots highlight their need for a power bat like Mike Trout, with trade speculation heating up ahead of the deadline.

The MLB franchise had a special appearance at Sunday's game when Backyard Baseball star Pablo Sanchez came to Citi Field.

Outfielder Starling Marte, who has been sidelined for two weeks due to a right knee bruise, will skip a minor league rehab assignment and return directly to the Mets’ active roster. In a corresponding move, Jared Young has been optioned to Triple-A Syracuse.

Starling Marte is set to return to the New York Mets' lineup on Tuesday after battling a bruised knee, leading to Jared Young losing his big league roster spot.

After tearing up Triple-A pitching for a few weeks, catcher Francisco Alvarez was recalled Monday by the New York Mets and immediately reinserted into the starting lineup

The New York Mets have an opportunity to set the tone for the entire trade deadline. With a few obvious needs, the Mets have the prospect capital and financial might to get the best players available at multiple positions.

Mets' third baseman Brett Baty has played very well in July, stating a case that he can still be the team's long term answer at the position.