New York Mets: A David Wright return is what the fanbase needs right now

New York Mets Captain, David Wright, has finally started his rehab assignment and while his early performance doesn’t look great, a return to Queens will be just what the fanbase needs.

New York Mets third baseman David Wright was once considered one of the game’s best, a perennial MVP candidate and a surefire Hall of Famer once it was all said and done.

Unfortunately for Wright and Mets fans alike, he was diagnosed with early onset spinal stenosis, a career-threatening prognosis that has kept him out of baseball since May 27th, 2016.

Out of the New York spotlight due to his two-year rehab process, Wright has been an afterthought to some. Yet, the once Hall of Fame-bound third baseman has been thrust to the forefront now that he’s begun his journey back to the majors.

Wright’s rehab assignment has lifted the fanbase and given Mets fans a reason to stay invested this season. However, it hasn’t exactly been a great start for him.

Through the four games (as of this writing) he’s played for High-A St. Lucie, Wright has gone 0-10 with 5 strikeouts against two walks.

That’s not exactly the best start and the strikeouts are a concern, but keep in mind that the Captain hasn’t seen a pitch thrown his way in two years.

A good feel for the strike zone is sure to return once Wright gets more at-bats under his belt and he’s still showing some positive signs in the batter’s box. Despite what his stat line may indicate, the Mets’ franchise icon is hitting the ball hard when he makes contact.

As long as he continues to do that, the hits are bound to start coming. What’s most encouraging, though, is Wright’s performance in the field.

In his second game back, Wright made made a solid play tracking down a pop fly in foul territory. Granted, the highlight below could be considered a routine play by most, if not all baseball fans, but it’s an encouraging sign for Wright.

Spinal stenosis can seriously limit a person’s mobility not only in their lower back, but in their hips, knees and ankles as well. The fact that he was able to track down and make a late adjustment on the ball with little effort is a good sign that he can effectively play the field.

Would Wright’s return make for a great feel-good story during a Mets season to forget?

Without a doubt. Wright is still the face of the franchise despite being out of baseball for the past two seasons, and his drive to play for the Mets once again is both admirable and inspiring to baseball fans everywhere.

The Captain’s impact on the franchise cannot be understated. If he can work his way back to Citi Field before season’s end, Wright’s return would rejuvenate a frustrated fanbase and bring the steady veteran leadership the Mets need in the clubhouse.