New York Mets Captain, David Wright, continued his rehab assignment on Wednesday in Port St. Lucie. If the former star is able to return, how will he impact the club?
For the third time in four days, David Wright suited up in a Mets uniform. The uniform was not of the New York Mets, but that of the clubs Single-A affiliate, the St. Lucie Mets. As reported late last week, David Wright is on assignment as he continues to work his way back to Queens after a two-year absence.
In this three-game stretch, Wright is still searching for his first hit. The righty is currently 0-7, going 0-3 with a walk and two putouts in the game on Wednesday.
Wright made optimistic comments (Metsblog.com) to the media following Wednesday’s game.
“I think slowly but surely, you see the ball,” Wright said Monday. “The more pitches I can get under my belt, the better. Hopefully the results come, but that shouldn’t and isn’t my No. 1 concern right now. My No. 1 concern is trying to catch up to the speed of the game, get into a rhythm offensively and defensively.”
As Wright said, it is reasonable to assume that his timing and feel will begin to return as he sees more pitches and game action.
In my opinion, there still is a cause for concern. Wright is coming up on missing his second full season as he tries to work his way back from shoulder, neck and back surgeries. We also can’t forget that he is continuing to nurse spinal stenosis.
David Wright is 35-years old, the age around the typical downswing for Major League careers. Is the muscle memory and timing still going to be there for the Mets’ longtime third baseman?
Being a Mets’ fan myself, I am optimistic because Wright is a strong and dedicated player, it is a feat of strength that he has even made it this far, but there is a point where fans and management need to start being realistic.
With that said, what can we expect from David Wright if his rehab continues to go well?
At this point in his career, it is not a surprise to say that David Wright is no longer an everyday player. If he is able to return, we could see Wright sliding into the Mets’ lineup a few days a week as a part-time player. Todd Frazier‘s flexibility to play third and first base will come in handy here, as Wright’s bat can be added into the lineup as Frazier can slide across the diamond.
As of now, Wright’s offensive effectiveness is in question, but if he can prove that he can still be a serviceable player, we should see the Mets’ Captain in the lineup a few times per week.
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Wright’s leadership will also be a big boost in the Mets’ clubhouse. Wright has always been a strong leader, which is why he was named the clubs Captain. Having him in the clubhouse will be like having a second manager. This impact is priceless as the Mets have a number of young developing players.
In the end, David Wright seems to be in good shape, he looks good and is moving around well. His shoulder, back, and skills just need to hold up.
Wright returning as a part-time player is the dream scenario for the New York Mets. I’m sure I speak for many, but I just want to see Wright step into the Citi Field batters box at least one last time. If his rehab hits a snag, maybe he returns for one last at-bat? Maybe he transitions into a coaching role? We will have to wait and see how the David Wright saga will end.
I hope the story of David Wright has a happy ending, his play and presence has meant so much to the New York Mets over his tenure. David Wright is and will always be Mr. Met.