When Yoenis Cespedes, in controversial fashion, decided to opt out of the 2020 season because of concerns with COVID-19, the New York Mets had to re-configure their plans for the designated hitter spot. That position in the lineup was designed for the Cuban slugger, and losing him so suddenly had the team scrambling for solutions.
Last season, the Mets tried Dominic Smith, a former first round pick, in the outfield in an effort to give him more at-bats. The first base, his natural position, was blocked by some guy named Pete Alonso. Also, they used Smith as a pinch hitter with considerable success.
Seeing that the DH spot was now vacant thanks to Cespedes, the New York Mets gave it to Smith and haven’t looked back. And boy, what a decision it has been. You could say with confidence that they have been better off with Smith, a young, projectable slugger, than with Cespedes.
The Mets’ offensive star so far
It’s not like Smith is the de facto DH for the Mets. In fact, it’s been a while since he last occupied that spot. But without Cespedes in the picture, and with his ability to play left field and first base, he has found his way in the lineup in an everyday basis.
The Mets have been using the DH spot lately to ease in players that return from injury, such as Robinson Cano and Jeff McNeil. But nevertheless, Smith has been a force to be reckoned with now that he has full exposure.
He had been giving hints of a breakout last season, when he finished with a .282/.355/.525 line, 11 home runs and 25 RBI and 35 runs in 89 games and 197 plate appearances.
This time around, the Mets have gotten even better production from the slugger. In just 20 games and 77 plate appearances, he already has six blasts and 21 RBI, with a .323/.403/.754 line and a 201 wRC+. Impressive numbers.
The Mets, despite having a depleted rotation, are currently streaking and looking for a sweep of the Marlins as they creep closer to .500 ball. And it is all thanks, in large part, to Smith.