"We started seeing a different Jeff McNeil at the plate"- Manager Carlos Mendoza explains Mets' offensive renaissance

Jeff McNeil has been on fire for the New York Mets of late. He is coming off a Thursday game where he walked off the Atlanta Braves in extra innings, which was an exciting finish.

Over his last five games, he has hit 8-for-19 with two home runs, six runs batted in, and three doubles. He has mentioned to reporters that he has felt great with where his swing is at, and the numbers show.

Manager Carlos Mendoza noticed McNeil's change ahead of the All-Star break. During a recent episode of Meet at the Apple with hosts Vito Calise and Jonathan Baron, Mendoza recalled seeing a completely different hitter. (Start at 3:17)

"I think I said it a week or two before the break that we started seeing a different Jeff McNeil at the plate because of the way he was driving the ball, the conviction. He wasn't trying to just guide the baseball," - said Mendoza.

Mendoza knew McNeil was capable of looking like this at the plate. He chalks it up to being a bit unlucky at times during the first half of the season. (Start at 3:51)

"He probably wasn't getting results, he was very unlucky the last two weeks, going into the break. But the at-bats were there, and just the conviction. The fact that now he is getting results is a good sign, but we know he is a good hitter," - said Mendoza.

Hopefully, those good results will continue. McNeil will be vital if the Mets want to fight for a postseason spot.

Jeff McNeil is not the only player that has stepped up for the Mets

New York Mets - Jose Butto (Image via Imagn)

Jeff McNeil is not the only Mets player who has stepped up for the team recently. Reliever Jose Butto has been an innings-eater out of the bullpen. (Start at 4:18)

"He's been amazing, because that transition is not as easy to make as he is making it seem. The way you got to get ready is a whole different routine compared to when you are starting a game" - said Mendoza.

Butto helped the club as a starter earlier in the season but has transitioned to the bullpen, and has been lights out. During his latest outing against the Braves on Thursday, he gave up zero hits while striking out four in three innings.

Things are looking good in the Big Apple. The team is winning, players are stepping up, and the vibes are at an all-time high this season.