With the news that second baseman Neil Walker has accepted his $17.2 million dollar qualifying offer, the New York Mets now find themselves with incredible depth in their infield. The player who is most impacted by the return of Walker, is utility infielder T.J. Rivera.
Rivera did not disappoint in his time in New York last season, hitting to a .333/.345/.476 batting line with three homers and 16 RBI. He was as advertised, a pure contact hitter who can put the ball in play. Rivera displayed his ability to handle major league pitching just as he has always throughout ever level in the minors.
The 28-year-old Bronx native understands that the current situation is not the most conducive to himself at this point, possibly being the odd man out in a crowded Mets infield.
“I’ve thought about it a little bit, but I haven’t really gotten down to thinking about what’s going to happen in the future,” Rivera said. “I’m kind of enjoying the moment right now.”
“Obviously that’s what’s most important is next season. But I’m just going to work hard, do the things I’ve done every offseason so far, and that’s go to work, just be prepared for any moment next year.” (MLB.com)
Rivera also has expressed his willingness to try his hand in the outfield as well, where he has played just nine games in the minors in 2016. He has always been a player that’s willing to adapt and play wherever the team has needed him.
T.J. was without a doubt a bright spot for this team in the 33 games he played in 2016. But unless something changes this offseason, he will find himself back in Las Vegas once again next season. He is a solid hitter without a permanent position.
Barring any trades, the Mets find themselves with a mix and match infield that will include Walker, David Wright, Asdrubal Cabrera, Lucas Duda, Jose Reyes, Wilmer Flores and Rivera. The depth is uncanny.
Question marks surrounding Wright will likely open the door for more playing time for Reyes and Flores. Rivera will be best suited in Vegas as backup in case one of the others go down with injury.
It is hard not to wonder what Rivera could do with a full season of playing time in the big leagues. Hopefully he continues to keep hitting the way he always has for the 51s, and that at some point next season he’ll get another shot to prove he belongs in the majors.
