New York Mets outfielder, Curtis Granderson is willing to play center field on a more regular basis if it means the return of the team’s slugger, Yoenis Cespedes.
“Wherever Terry (Collins) wants to put me, I’ll be out there, whether it’s left, center or right,” Granderson said. (NYDN)
Granderson, always a great teammate has no qualms when it comes to what position he may play for the team in the future as he heads into his own walk year. The Grandy-man has not spoken to Yoenis since the end of this season but is aware of everything he may be going through as he hits free agency.
“The big thing I’d tell him is to enjoy the process. You get a chance to be a free agent only a few times throughout your career,” Granderson said.
“A lot of people look for that opportunity to be in a position where teams show their interest in you. The Mets are obviously one of those teams that have a lot of interest in him. We’d love to have him back. He’s been a great teammate for the time I’ve gotten to play with him.”
Granderson handled center just fine when placed there this season. He also is aware that there may be a couple of other players competing to play the position, entering the 2017 season as well.
“Juan Lagares will be trying to come back and get himself healthy,” Granderson said. “He’s a Gold Glove outfielder and we’d love to have him out there because he’s one of the best in the game. (Michael) Conforto is possibly going to be in the mix and (Brandon) Nimmo.”
Curtis is not just the ultimate teammate but one of the great humanitarians in the game today. Granderson was awarded the 2016 Marvin Miller award on Wednesday. The award is given to the player whose on-field contributions are just as big as those to his community.
There is no secret around New York that we all wait on pins and needles as Cespedes and his agents feel out what his market will be. The team seems to be taking a more proactive stance with Yo this offseason, we can only hope he returns to Queens once more, anchoring the Metropolitans lineup.
