Cory Sullivan has adopted a take no prisoners approach to spring training this season.
Even though he signed a major league contract in January to play with the Mets, he is taking no chances. He’s not walking around with a sense of entitlement believing that he doesn’t have to try hard because he is a lock to make the team.
When the Mets first signed Sullivan I thought it was a very curious move. It was not long after we made the Putz trade that also gave us outfielder Jeremy Reed a similar type left handed batter. However, it wasn’t a huge contract so I figured lets see how it all plays out.
So far, Sullivan has been one of the most productive hitters in camp. We already knew he was a fine defensive centerfielder, but the knock on him has always been his bat.
Sullivan was a career .279 hitter with the Rockies in four seasons.
On Tuesday, Sullivan went 3-4 and has raised his batting average to a sizzling hot .364 to lead the team among all players with 20 AB or more. His on-base percentage is a staggering .462.
Sullivan is too old at 29 to be called a prospect anymore, and his best bet is probably a career as a utility outfielder.
That said, he may find himself getting plenty of playing time as a defensive replacement at the corners, and may even give Carlos Beltran a breather too when needed. I don’t know if there will be room enough on the team for both Sullivan and Jeremy Reed, but from the way things look right now, I’d rather have Sullivan.
