Jose Reyes lit a fire under the Mets last season when he joined the team and produced more than enough to be brought back for 2017. He can play second base, third base, and shortstop so he will serve as a super-utility man this season. His versatility will be increased as he will be learning to play outfield in Spring Training.
In a phone interview on Mets Hot Stove, Reyes said, “I’m ready to do whatever they ask me to do, that’s all I’m focused on right now… It’s going to be different. When I played third base last year, it was still the infield. I never had the opportunity to play outfield other than one game when I played rookie ball in 2000. But, like I told you, whatever they ask me to do I’m going to be more than happy to do.”
“It’s all about the right mindset,” he said. “I’m going to have the right attitude and work at every position in spring training. I’m looking forward to the challenge.” Reyes has a strong, accurate arm which paired with his plus speed should make his transition to the outfield comparatively easy.
Reyes brings a certain spark to the team that the Mets had been lacking since, well, Jose Reyes. In 2016, Reyes hit .267 with four triples, eight home runs, nine stolen bases, and 24 RBIs while playing shortstop and third base in 60 games.
