New York Mets: Yoenis Cespedes Moving in the Right Direction

The story of the high priced New York Mets outfielder Yoenis Cespedes is one of the most talked-about stories throughout the beginning of Spring Training. After missing almost two years with heel injuries, Cespedes arrived at Spring Training early and is progressing well in his rehab program.

Cespedes made a lot of noise by his silence towards the media. He has decided not to speak to them at all, which continues his long-lasting battle against the press. On the field, Cespedes has been everything the Mets could ask for as he recovers from double heel surgery. The surgery is still keeping Cespedes out of the first few Spring Training games due to the Mets being extremely cautious with their slugger.

Any Progress is Good Progress

Cespedes surgery is very similar to the career-damaging one Troy Tulowitzki received. He is moving well on his repaired legs, but the Mets have not ramped things up in the same way they have done with the rest of their players. It seems the defense will be the hardest part of Cespedes finding his way back to the field. The Mets can put him in any Spring Training games if he cannot move at 100 percent.

If there is rust in Cespedes’ swing, it has not been evident yet. After flinging his bat, Todd Frazier style, on his first swing, he has been good since. Cespedes’ at-bats have included a homer, double off Rick Porcello, and a hard line drive off Jacob deGrom. The best part of his game has always been his bat, which seems ready for game action.

The Mets are fine with easing Cespedes back because of their surplus of outfielders. His expectation is likely to regain his role in left field, but the longer he cannot play, the easier it is for J.D. Davis to continue playing over Cespedes.