
Which New York Mets will shock and delight us this year with a trip to the All-Star Game?
Last year, three New York Mets made the trip to the All-Star Game. Jacob deGrom was the one who had been there before while Pete Alonso and Jeff McNeil each made their first appearance.
None of the three were really surprises. deGrom is the best pitcher in baseball and the other two had already made a name for themselves with memorable 2018 campaigns in the minor leagues with McNeil continuing to hit well for two months in the majors.
In 2020, all three have a chance to go to the All-Star Game again. They won’t be surprises, though. We’ve seen them there before and expect them to have All-Star caliber campaigns again. The same is true for a number of players on this roster.
Meanwhile, there are a few Mets we’re expecting a little less from in 2020 who could shock us all and make that midsummer trip to play in baseball’s most popular exhibition game.
Robinson Cano
Imagine an All-Star season from Robinson Cano. I know it’s tough. Not even the minds of Pixar could come up with something so unique.
Let’s not forget Cano has already been to eight All-Star Games. A big reason for it is the lack of talent at the second base position. Typically, half the league in any season will have a light-hitting option at the position. If Cano is able to do even half of what he has been able to accomplish in the past, he’s already a contender for an All-Star spot.
I wouldn’t place a wager on it with Cano now a year older and clearly on the decline. Nevertheless, the competition at second base is shallower than it is at most positions.
A hot start plus name recognition could help Cano get to the All-Star Game. It’s unlikely, which would make it a huge yet possible surprise.