After a fantastic season in 2015, Curtis Granderson is already excited about next year. Granderson knows there will be a lot of pressure on the team to perform, but says that he’s prepared for the challenge.
“The target will definitely be on our back,” Granderson said. “Case in point, you look at what Washington has done the last couple of years. You come into a season knowing that you could potentially be one of the favorites to win your division. You definitely can’t take it lightly or for granted.” (Brian Heyman, Newsday)
While the Mets will likely be missing the powerful bat of Yoenis Cespedes, Granderson thinks the additions of Neil Walker and Asdrubal Cabrera were great moves,
“He always beat us, especially in Pittsburgh,” Granderson said. “I’m excited to have another versatile player that he brings to us, both offensively and defensively. And then with Cabrera, another guy I’ve gotten a chance to play against a lot that’s been very good on so many different aspects, from hitting and defense . . . ”
In 682 plate appearances in 2015, Granderson blasted 27 homeruns with 70 RBI. He was arguably the team’s most consistent performer as he posted an excellent 129 OPS+ and 5.1 WAR
Granderson played even better in the postseason where he crushed three homeruns and had a .866 OPS in 14 games. Amazingly, he achieved this despite playing with a torn ligament in his thumb, but says that it didn’t hinder his performance since it was his top hand.
He underwent surgery following the World Series, and is expected to be at full strength for the upcoming season.
“We’re good to go,” Granderson said. “Offseason workouts have already begun.”
