New York Mets outfielder Alejandro De Aza has received sparse playing time because of the team’s outfield depth, but that may change. According to a report by Adam Rubin of ESPN New York, De Aza started working out at first base to give the Mets more flexibility and perhaps increase his playing time.
De Aza has received instruction from infield coach Tim Teufel on playing first base before Thursday’s game vs the Washington Nationals. He recently approached manager Terry Collins about playing first base. The reserve outfielder has played 30 minor-league games at the position.
Because of the presence of starting first baseman Lucas Duda, who’s also a lefty hitter, De Aza would unlikely start at first base, but if he’s is willing, he could give Collins a double-switching option late in the game.
“Versatility is huge,” said Collins. “And if you want to play more, if you give us more options, you’re going to get a lot more playing time. It’s tough when you’re a fifth outfielder to get in the lineup.”
