In MLB Network’s annual position by position rankings, they announced they put Brandon Nimmo as the fifth-best center fielder in baseball.
Nimmo broke out with a star season in 2018, posting a 148 wRC+ and 4.5 fWAR. While still good, he took a step back in 2019, playing in only 69 games while posting a 114 wRC+ and 1.3 fWAR.
However, in the shortened 2020 season, he seemingly returned to form, replicating his 148 wRC+ from 2018.
Overall as a Met, he has put up a 133 wRC+ and 8.7 fWAR in 1309 plate appearances.
His defense, while not awful, leaves a bit to be desired though, especially in center field. He posted -5 DRS and a -4.1 UZR playing center in 2020, and has negative numbers there throughout his major league career so far. His numbers in the corner outfield spots are not spectacular, but more respectable.
Despite being listed as a center fielder for the purposes of this list, he will likely be pushed to left field in 2021, especially if the Mets sign a George Springer type, or even Jackie Bradley Jr.
While some fans might raise an eyebrow at Nimmo being listed as MLB’s fifth-best center fielder, just four measly spots behind the almighty Mike Trout, his offensive prowess cannot be overlooked. Regardless of which outfield spot he’s playing, he’s sure to be an integral part of this Mets team this year and going forward.
