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Best Mets starting position player on every World Series team we don’t talk about enough

ByTim Boyle|
NEW YORK - CIRCA 1973: Felix Millan #16 of the New York Mets throws over the top of Johnny Bench #5 of the Cincinnati Reds during an Major League Baseball game circa 1973 at Shea Stadium in the Queens borough of New York City. Millan played for the Mets from 1973-77. (Photo by Focus on Sport/Getty Images)
NEW YORK - CIRCA 1973: Felix Millan #16 of the New York Mets throws over the top of Johnny Bench #5 of the Cincinnati Reds during an Major League Baseball game circa 1973 at Shea Stadium in the Queens borough of New York City. Millan played for the Mets from 1973-77. (Photo by Focus on Sport/Getty Images)
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NEW YORK – CIRCA 1973: Felix Millan #17 of the New York Mets bats against the Cincinnati Reds during an Major League Baseball game circa 1973 at Shea Stadium in the Queens borough of New York City. Millan played for the Mets from 1973-77. (Photo by Focus on Sport/Getty Images)

Best 1973 Mets position player we don’t talk about enough – Felix Millan

After Boswell’s days at the Mets starting second baseman were over, Felix Millan became the guy at the position. Acquired via trade with the Atlanta Braves, Millan is one of the most underrated Mets of all time. He hit consistently in his time with the organization. For a long time, he held the franchise record for most hits in a single season.

Millan was a part of the 1973 Mets team that made it to the Game 7 of the World Series. That may not have been possible if not for Millan’s regular season performance.

Ravaged by injuries, Millan was one of the few position players who managed to play the bulk of the season. He completed the year with 153 games played and 699 plate appearances. He ended up with 185 hits and a .290/.332/.353 batting line.

In addition to the offensive production the Mets desperately needed, Millan was a defensive stud. He had already won the Gold Glove twice. This year, he wouldn’t but still put together a 1.3 WAR on defense.

Millan was rewarded for his efforts with a 16th place finish in the MVP vote. Baseball writers recognized what he did for the team. While loyal Mets fans still recognize him as one of the best second basemen in club history, I’m not sure he gets enough credit.

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