NY Mets: 2 things that went right, 1 thing went wrong for Brandon Nimmo

What went right: Brandon Nimmo played good defense in center field

Nimmo probably won’t win a Gold Glove in center field but he was well-above average this past season. Just like he was often criticized for his struggles against lefties, we can put this narrative to rest.

Nimmo posted a 0.6 WAR on defense while playing center field almost exclusively. It was the first time since his 32 game stint with the club in 2016 that he had a positive WAR on defense.

His range was above the league average by a nice margin and his total defensive runs saved dove headfirst and more into the positive numbers. The turnaround is one of the most pleasant surprises from this past season. I’m not sure what he did to become a good fielder center fielder. Whatever it was, he needs to continue.

What makes this even more impressive is how horrific he was in 2020 from a statistical standpoint in all three outfield spots. While I do find some defensive statistics can be misleading, the eye test always breaks any doubts.

There weren’t many moments in 2021 when Nimmo was costing games or even single outs because of the way he played center field. That yearly search for an upgrade at the position has ended. The Mets have found their center fielder—for at least another year.

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What else did you think went right or wrong for Nimmo this past year?