New York Mets: Rajai Davis Year in Review

Sep 14, 2019; New York City, NY, USA; New York Mets pinch hitter Rajai Davis (18) reacts after hitting a three run double against the Los Angeles Dodgers during the eighth inning at Citi Field. Mandatory Credit: Andy Marlin-USA TODAY Sports

Rajai Davis was part of the New York Mets plan to bring in more depth during the offseason. While he only spent a minimal amount of time in the big leagues, he made a significant impact in the key moments.

https://twitter.com/genymets/status/1131379191218364416

At 38-years old, Davis latched on with the Mets on a minor league deal, hoping to work his way back on a major league roster. During the end of May, he got to play in four games where he went 2-for-7 with a home run. The homer came in Davis’s very first at-bat with the Mets. It happened during the stretch of the season where the Mets looked unstoppable again the Nationals.

The great part about the home run is that he took a $283 Uber ride to Citi Field and did not arrive at the game until the third inning. His whole season is an excellent story about how a long-time veteran wants to continue living their dream and will do anything it takes to do so.

Thrown Into a Playoff Chase

Davis was recalled in on August 20 to bolster the Mets outfield and add some speed off the bench. He did not provide any support with the bat as he only had three hits in 18 at-bats. One of his big hits came against the Los Angeles Dodgers in the form of a three-run double. Davis only had one stolen base attempt on the season, and he was thrown out in the lone effort.

Also, it is hard to forget the classic video of Joe West using Davis as support after he lost his balance against the Phillies.

Grades:

Hitting for Average: D-, only hit .200 overall in his limited at-bats

Hitting for Power: D, one home run is already more than we expected

Defense: B-, reliable in his 32 innings in the corner outfield spots

Speed/Baserunning: D, 0-for-1 is undoubtebly not what the Mets expected when they signed him. Still a smart baserunner

Intangibles: B, was not around for a long time, but was an excellent baseball mind to have around

Overall: D-, the expectations were not high with Davis, but they certainly expected more stolen bases