Mets Predictions: J.D. Davis should and will have a long career in NYC

J.D. Davis has DH written all over him

It’s too soon to give up on Davis as a productive member of the Mets lineup as more than just a bat. However, I think he will serve this squad best as the near full-time DH beginning in 2021. It makes a lot of sense considering his defensive limitations and how the Mets wouldn’t really miss him much in the field.

Assuming the alternative would be for Davis to play left field, the Mets can easily solve this by moving Brandon Nimmo there where he’s far more comfortable. This would allow them to target a truer center fielder and let Davis slip in as their primary DH.

By no means would Davis suck up every plate appearance by the DH. If he hits, Robinson Cano may get some starts there as should Pete Alonso.

Since this is the DH we’re talking about, nearly everyone with a hot bat and less than stellar glove could see an appearance at the plate. Davis was built for the DH role and it’s what I’m predicting he’s destined for while in Flushing.

There are a few conclusions to jump to for this to be possible. The DH has to be a more permanent fixture in the NL which feels all too likely. Davis must also continue to hit and the Mets need to hold onto him. I believe strongly in both.

The whole idea of trading Davis in the first place had a lot to do with a lack of places to play him. The issue solves itself with the inevitable: pitchers will no longer hit in National League hosted games.