New York Mets: What to Expect From Jed Lowrie

New York Mets, Jed Lowrie
Sep 7, 2019; New York City, NY, USA; New York Mets pinch hitter Jed Lowrie (4) reacts after striking out with two men on base against the Philadelphia Phillies during the fourth inning at Citi Field. Mandatory Credit: Andy Marlin-USA TODAY Sports

On Saturday, Jed Lowrie made his way off the Mets Injured List for the first time this season. The injury riddled infielder missed the first five months of the season due to various leg injuries. In his return, has struck out in his first two at bats, which brings the question of what Lowrie will be capable of this season.

Just seeing Lowrie back on the field is a miracle. He never settled in with the Mets since he was battling injuries from the first week of Spring Training after signing  a two year, $20 million deal. In 2018, he put up an All-Star season with the A’s. Lowrie had a career high 23 home runs and 99 RBIs, along with playing in 157 games.

What Impact Will Lowrie Have?

During his first two days back Lowrie has been relegated to pinch hitting duty. It resulted in two pinch hit strikeouts, which is understandable for someone who has not seen major league pitching all year. The Mets currently have a crowded infield and still feel like they have a chance to move up the standings. This means during the final three weeks the Mets may not be able to afford Lowrie the chance to figure himself out while they are still in the race.

Lowrie could find himself getting some starts to give Robinson Cano and Jeff McNeil breaks, but he will have a hard time cracking the starting lineup consistently. He has value the Mets have not had all year, which is the ability to hit from both sides of the plate. In his career, he is 12-for-44 during as a pinch hitter and was the first switch hitter to bat for the Mets all season. If Lowrie can find his groove at the plate, it give the Mets a veteran hitter they can turn to in late situations.