Mets: Which players would make up your favorite lineup of all-time?

The Mets have had some great infielders over the years. Some of these are known for the bat, and some are known for their grit.

First Base – Carlos Delgado

There was something about Carlos Delgado that made him such an intimidating hitter. His power when he connected just right was ungodly. He also had a penchant for hitting huge home runs. When he got on a hot streak, watch out! He would carry the team for weeks at a time.

He provided some steady leadership at first base and there was nothing better than watching the fist pump after a double play. He’s another player who should get some Hall of Fame consideration one day.

Second Base – Jeff McNeil

To most fans and maybe Jeff McNeil himself, he’s still writing his own legacy. However, it’s hard not to love what he brings to the table. From the moment he came to the big leagues all he has done is hit. Even last year when he struggled a bit, he recovered in a big way.

It doesn’t matter where McNeil plays, it’s admirable to watch him give it his all on every play. It’s also extremely entertaining to watch him make-outs (you know why). I hope this man will be a fixture in the Mets lineup for years to come.

Third Base – Edgardo Alfonzo

Edgardo Alfonzo was the first player I ever latched on to when I began watching the Mets. To be honest, I only really watched him for two and a half seasons. In 2001 he was not very good and injured, and in 2002 he bounced back but wasn’t the same player he was before.

Nevertheless, I loved Fonzi whether he was at second base or third. Until this very day, I still wear number 13 on my softball uniform in honor of him. For me, he’ll always be my favorite Mets player of all-time.

This is no shade to David Wright either. I cried just like the rest of us when he retired, but I never felt that connection toward Wright and was actually extremely frustrated with the hopeful expectation that he’d ever come back healthy.

Shortstop – Jose Reyes

Jose Reyes was probably my second favorite Mets player of all-time. I remember not being impressed when he came up in 2003. He looked overmatched, made a few errors, and then came back in 2004 mostly hurt and underperforming. But man oh man, did he put it together the next few seasons.

Reyes was arguably one of the most dynamic and exciting players to watch in baseball. He could hit really well, was a speed demon on the bases, and played above-average shortstop.

His ending as a Met was unceremonious both times. The first time when he left, removing himself from a game after a bunt to secure the batting title was kind of crappy. I was excited when he returned in 2016 but by the end of 2018 he had worn out his welcome. What could have been a warm send-off was justly overshadowed by Wright’s farewell.