5 years agoThe New York Mets plan to have infielder/outfielder J.D. Davis practice 50 percent of his time at third base this spring, even if playing time during Grapefruit League games keeps him in the outfield. This plan is being put into place in order to give Davis defensive confidence at the position before Opening Day. Jeff McNeil is the Mets primary third baseman, but third-base flexibility for Davis will allow the Mets to keep both McNeil and Davis in the lineup when McNeil spells Robinson Cano at second base. In 410 at-bats last season, Davis hit .307 with 22 home runs and 57 RBI. Currently, Davis slots in as the Mets left fielder, but consistent playing time for Davis is no certainty in a crowded Mets outfield with Dominic Smith, Michael Conforto, Brandon Nimmo, Jake Marisnick and Yoenis Cespedes also rostered. The Mets are clearly interested in keeping Davis in the lineup by pushing to have him develop further at third. This should lead to more playing time for Davis given Cano's recent injury history, making him an even more attractive fantasy breakout candidate heading into drafts. While already eligible at third in most fantasy formats heading into 2020, consistent playing time at third base during the season will allow owners in keeper and dynasty formats to maintain that position flexibility into 2021, enhancing his fantasy value.--Nick Ritrivi - RotoBaller
Source: N.Y. Post