What is J.D. Davis’s Role on the 2020 Mets?
By Brian Devine
Acquired from the Astros last offseason, J.D. Davis capitalized on his opportunity with the Mets. The 26-year-old slugger emerged from obscurity to become one of team’s most dangerous hitters, slashing .307/.369/.527 with 22 home runs in 453 plate appearances. His .373 wOBA, and 136 wRC+, ranked third on the Mets behind only Pete Alonso and Jeff McNeil.
But despite his impressive performance, it remains unclear if he’ll play third base, left field, or be put in a utility role in 2020. While Davis thrived at the plate, he struggled defensively. His Defensive Runs Saved (DRS) at third base was -9 in 220 innings, and his DRS at left field was -11 in 585.1 innings.
In an excellent interview with Justin Toscano of NorthJersey.com, Davis said that, even though he sees himself in left field next season, he’s willing to play either position.
“I’m 26 years old and just had my first year in the big leagues, so any way I can get on the field would really help me out,” he said. “I’m not 20 years old and so versatile like some of these guys are over there on the Dodgers, where (Cody) Bellinger plays left, center and first base, and be a Gold-Glover everywhere he goes.”
Before Mickey Callaway was fired on Thursday, the former Mets’ Manager mentioned that Davis would be in line to play in left field. But whatever plans Callaway had obviously aren’t set any longer.
The new Mets’ manager will have several options in left field with Michael Conforto, Brandon Nimmo, Jeff McNeil, Dominic Smith and Davis all able to play the outfield. And at third base, the Mets have also have McNeil, and Jed Lowrie, as possibilities.
Given this depth, Davis seems like a potential trade candidate. But how much would other teams pay for him? He never had previous MLB success, and his breakout came with a .355 BABIP. Other teams will also be wary of his struggles on defense.
Unless another organization blows the Mets away, Davis should be kept and be given as many at-bats as possible. Even with his struggles on defense, Davis provided tremendous value last season and was a key factor in the Mets’ second half resurgence.
Davis batted .317 with 11 home runs and a .955 OPS in August and September, while also coming through in the clutch multiple times. In the 10th inning against the Indians in late August, for example, Davis delivered a dramatic walk-off hit with a single.
Davis is far from being the most agile and reliable defender, but he can flat out hit. His bat is simply too good to be put on the bench. The best plan seems to have him play some combination of both left field and third base, depending on the health and performance of the team’s other infielders and outfielders.