New York Mets: 6 Options To Replace Lucas Duda
Flores is currently on the DL recovering from an injury of his own. He has been sidelined since May 10th because of a hamstring issue, but is set to begin his rehab assignment on Tuesday at Double-A Binghamton.. He is eligible to return Friday, and is expected to be activated once eligible.
He should receive the first chance at consistent playing time at first base, as the Mets worked him out there throughout the spring. After being the Mets primary shortstop for most of 2015, the Mets moved Flores to a utility role this season with the upgrades they made in the middle infield. It was a way to help get Flores in the lineup, as Asdrubal Cabrera and Neil Walker are handling shortstop and second base this season.
The Mets never envisioned Flores as being the everyday first baseman, but with Duda now sidelined they will have to go with someone. He was expected to be the backup throughout the season, so it makes sense that he will receive the first shot.
Flores will have to improve at the plate though if he wants to stay in the lineup. He is currently slashing .180/.255/.280 in 50 at-bats. That will not get it done, especially for a position such as first base where run producers usually reside.
If Flores does not get things going at the plate, or struggles in the field, Collins will not hesitate to move on to another option. While there aren’t very many, there is one more already on the team that he could turn to.
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