Mets 2017 Season Preview: Which player is most likely to surprise?

Bryan Carroll, Staff Writer

My Mets player most likely to surprise in 2017 is very tough to decide on. I want to say Michael Conforto, but the fact that he may not even be on the Opening Day roster isn’t good, even though he’s had a red hot start at the plate in spring.

I also want to say d’Arnaud or Jay Bruce. However, I’ve learned to never rely on d’Arnaud until he proves something, whether it’s at the plate or on the field. For Jay Bruce, he’ll be on the trade block all year so it’s tough to say he’ll be a surprise for the team, but I do think he’ll settle in. Also, if Bruce begins playing 1st base, and successfully, he won’t be traded anywhere.

Therefore, I think my biggest surprise player for 2017 will be Jose Reyes. Reyes now has the domestic troubles behind him, he’s not under a massive contract with lots of pressure, he’s got a fresh start in a place he loves to play. Reyes gives the Mets a utility infielder (and maybe center fielder) and solid leadoff bat.

I see Reyes providing a spark on the field and in the locker room for the Mets. He loves playing for this team and knows he has something to prove. I think his bat will be a pleasant surprise and he’ll be able to fill in anywhere when the injuries begin.