Matt Ehalt of NorthJersey.com, recently gathered some thoughts from John Mayberry Jr. on his decision to sign with the Mets in 2015. According to the 31 year old outfielder, the choice was a “no-brainer”.
Looking for a right-handed power bat for the bench, the Mets signed Mayberry to a one year worth $1.45 million dollars.
“This was the best opportunity for me to come and contribute,” Mayberry said. “The bonus with this particular team is I feel we have the potential to win.”
The veteran slugger has a knack for hitting left-handed pitching, but is still certain he can contribute in a number of different ways.
“Whether or not I’m platooning or starting against lefties or coming off the bench late…Whatever the case may be, I thought I can be an asset on this team”.
Last year, Mayberry played with both the Phillies and the Blue Jays, returning to the power form against southpaws that he had showed in 2011. His overall career numbers against left handed pitching are excellent for a pinch hitting or platoon role, hitting .269 with an outstanding .533 slugging percentage.
Although, Mayberry did prove he can still go yard against righties, taking All-Star pitcher Max Scherzer out of the ballpark during Thursday’s spring training contest against the Nationals. Hopefully he continues that kind of success against Washington when the Mets call upon him this season.
At the price the Mets are paying, Mayberry is an excellent addition off of the bench or against lefties. It’s easy to focus entirely on the starting players since they’ll be responsible for producing the majority of the offense this year, but every successful playoff team has a deep bench and depending on the situation, the Mets have a solid mix of offensive and defensive talent ready to contribute at a moment’s notice.
Lets! Go! Mets!
