It has been almost two years since Yoenis Cespedes last major league game, but the New York Mets high priced outfielder is working his way back to the field. He is active at the Mets Spring Training facility in Port St. Lucie, participating in running drills and taking batting practice.
?? #LGM pic.twitter.com/B0VyUcTecc
— Yoenis Cespedes (@ynscspds) January 20, 2020
Cespedes is recovering from multiple fractures in his right ankle from stepping in a hole avoiding a wild boar. The injury resulted in his salary for the 2020 season dropping just over $15 million. After signing his four year/$110 million contract, he only managed to play 119 games so far.
Contract Year
Cespedes production did not waiver when he played, but the issue has always been keeping him on the field. At age-34, any consistency in his production and health should net him interest for the 2021 season. Most of the interested teams will likely be from the American League.
Cespedes has very high expectations for himself, stating, “I’m ready, and I’m gonna go out with a bang this year, and I’m not just gonna hit 40 home runs….I’ll be out there for 140-plus games.” Even getting into the neighboorhood of 40 would give the Mets a very dangerous offense in their outfield.
General Manager Brodie Van Wagenen says the team has no timetable for his return. It has not been clear if the Mets expect him to participate in any Spring Training games. He seems to be moving well, but it will be smart for the Mets to take things one step at a time with the often injured Cespedes.