Albert Almora came with a reputation as a strong defensive organization for the Junior Mets, and is definitely back early in spring training.
But the former Cub was also looking forward to a reunion with coach Chilli Davis colliding under what was to be one of his best offensive seasons in Chicago, and early returns encouraged manager Luis Rojas.
“Ever since he has been here, he has talked about using the entire field,” Rojas said Wednesday before the Mets lost 3-2 to the Flats in Jupiter, Fla. Having chili here is a big plus for them as they have known each other for a few years now. I see him using the entire field, moving the ball more and more the other way. He wants to translate into sports.
Almora then went out and did the same, cracking a two-run double to the opposite field to end his day in the seventh inning.
More often than not, however, Almora made his presence known with his gloves.
“Defense has solidified,” Rojas said. “His mindset has been right in the camp. He is very positive, he wants to win. I think that goes with what the rest of the people in this camp are thinking and doing. “
Although his exact role remains this season, Almora has made early indications that he could provide the Mets with solid options off the bench and consecutive late-starting defensive substitutions. The absence of a designated hitter in the National League could dent the amount he and Kevin Pilar receive if projected starts in the outfield are Michael Confoto, Brandon Nimmo and Dominic Smith healthy.
But Pilar and Almora, who signed George Springer after the Mets missed, should give the club a much stronger look than the depth they have seen in recent years.
“Roles are not defined, we can get really good production with different lineups that we can put together what we are facing or how people are swinging,” Rose said. “Those people, we are enjoying that they are very involved and they want to produce for the team. Once we get closer to the season, we will see what the roles are. But we are very much about our depth Feel good. “
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