Duda is still riding high from his impressive 30 homerun season last year.
For those who are unaware or just started watching the Mets, Duda had a monster season. It was one of those things that just came out of the blue. The most hes ever hit in a single season was 15. And, to see him launch 30? Met fans couldn’t be any happier for their first basemen.
And needlessly to say, Duda made it on the cover (the back cover that is) of the New York Post. When asked if he can replicate last season’s success, Duda responded with confidence saying: “Absolutely”. That’s a very good attitude to have. Confidence can go a long ways. But, Duda it’s also realistic.
“It should be questioned,’’ he said. “Nothing is a given in this game. Just as easily as it is given to you it can be taken back.’’
Duda, like Met fans, doesn’t want to see another Ike Davis type scenario. Ike who had a fantastic season in 2012 with 32 homeruns never hit more then 11 homeruns after 2012. Duda sees this and doesn’t want to be an Ike Davis.
Now, I’m sure in some dark corner of the inter webs people are going to speculate PED’s were involved. If not, I’m sure someone will spout off about it. The argument would be that he’s never hit more then 15 prior to last season and in 2014 he hits 30. Well, as good as a point as that is, freak seasons do happen. And one has to remember hes had more playing time in 2014 then at any point in his Met’s career. And with more games and Ab’s comes the prospect of another repeat. And, Lucas is looking to make sure he going to continue where he left off last season.
I’m sure Duda was tested at some points of the season because lets face it, his surge was a bit of a shock (more like a pleasant surprise). And people will question it. I’m certain he’s legit. In fact, no doubt in my mind. But, PED’s are still a problem in baseball. And it shouldn’t have be an issue anymore. Period.
Here’s something that critics of Duda can’t question. His work ethic and his pure will to succeed.
“I wake up every day thinking: I’ve got to work hard today, get better somehow, someway, even a small thing. You can’t get complacent because of what you did yesterday or two weeks before or whatever it is, it really doesn’t matter.”
Those are words to live by.
Duda knows much work needs to be done. And, he’s going to see to it that he does his part. Let’s see if his positive attitude charges the Mets into playoff contention. Here’s to Duda and the Met’s having a prosperous season.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=6PacJ-mtdoE
