Today is the 32nd birthday of Mets’ captain David Wright, who admittedly is coming off of the worst season of his professional career.
He holds Mets franchise records for most career runs batted in (RBIs), doubles, total bases, runs scored, walks, sacrifice flies, times on base, extra base hits, strikeouts and hits. To say he’s made an impact in Queens is an understatement.
But in New York, we’re all about the here and now, and the fact is the Mets need Captain America to be on top of his game if they’re going to contend for a playoff spot in 2015.
Prior to his abysmal .269, with eight homers and 63 RBI last season, Wright showed no signs of decline. Sure, his power numbers took a dip, but he hit .307 in 2013 and .306 in 2012, and that’s after an injury-riddled 2011 season in which he played just 102 games. I think the days of him hitting 33 homers with 124 RBI like he did in 2008 (.302 BA, .390 OBP) are gone, but I think a resurgence is in the works. If you’d ask me, all I ask if for .280, 20 homers and 85 RBI. From a number three hitter, I don’t think that’s much to ask for.
Others think he’s done, and that’s a bit premature from my point of view. But, if he gets hurt again or has another lackluster season, Captain America might be transforming into Dr. Disappointment. One thing’s for sure. Ya gotta believe!
In honor of his birthday, here are a few videos of some great moments in David Wright’s career:
