New York Mets: Will Jose Reyes Return in 2017?

The New York Mets lost to the San Francisco Giants in the National League Wild Card Game. With the season over, what will happen to Jose Reyes?

It was a good season for the New York Mets despite the loss in the National League Wild Card Game to the San Francisco Giants. Injuries were a major issue for the Mets in 2016, and that led them to go out to try and find replacements.

One of the best moves the Mets made this season was the addition of Jose Reyes. After being released by the Colorado Rockies after serving his suspension for his off-the-field issues, Reyes was picked up by the Mets.

The signing of Reyes did cause some uproar in New York because of the domestic violence, but he was an upgrade on the field for the team. Basically, since Reyes left in free agency, the Mets have struggled to find a shortstop to replace him, and they have also not had a true leadoff hitter.

However, when Reyes returned, it was not to play shortstop, as Asdrubal Cabrera had been playing well since signing in the offseason. Due to the injury to David Wright, Reyes found himself playing at third base for his old teammate.

Coming into the season, the Mets didn’t do a very good job of giving themselves insurance for if Wright would miss extended time. Being able to bring Reyes gave the Mets an everyday third baseman that they could depend on for the rest of the season. Even on defense, Reyes adjusted very quickly to the new position.

Now, with the offseason here for the Mets, decisions will have to be made regarding their personnel. For Reyes, the Mets hold a team option for him for the 2017 season, and it is a no-brainer that they should exercise that.

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“I would love to finish my career here,” he said to Brandan Kuty of NJ.com. “I said that over and over.”

Keeping Reyes will give the Mets insurance if Wright is once again unable to contribute in 2017, as his health remains a question. Due to Neil Walker being a free agent, Reyes will also provide the Mets with some much-needed depth in case Walker leaves in free agency.

It was a great season for the Mets, and if the pitching staff comes back healthy, it can be even better next season. Reyes seems to be aware of that and is looking forward to it next season.

“We were able to make it to the playoff and like I said I feel very good about this year,” Reyes said to Kuty. “I hope I’m back next year because I know next year is going to be even better.”

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Finally, unless something crazy happens, there should be no reason why we won’t see Reyes back for the Mets next season.

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