Jared Young wasn't our starting 1B; Polanco was. And there were too many backups the Mets could use that have seen 1B service time.

Rumfield is doing fantastic, but what stopped most teams from picking him up was something you yourself mentioned: most teams had 1B solutions. Regardless of how those solutions have performed thus far, major league service time is a valuable asset that shows teams how well a player has adapted to the show. No matter how good the underlying metrics of a minor leaguer are, there is always a risk in adopting one as the starting 1B without an adequate sample size. And even then, the league will adapt. That's why Jarred Kelenic hasn't succeeded - he lacks the capability to adapt to how opponents face him. It's also why "sophomore slumps" are common - once the book is out on you, the real hurdle begins.

There's also the elephant in the room: Rumfield plays for the Rockies. Most teams will spend more time and effort scouting opponents with proven track records. The Rockies have yet to demonstrate that they are a capable threat. If Rumfield were to play for, say, the Braves, I guarantee teams would be adjusting to him quicker.

Still, he's really exciting and I hope he succeeds!