Former NY Mets fan favorite signs overseas after rapid decline

When you think of Brodie Van Wagenen's time as New York Mets General Manager, only the negative moves come to mind. People are quick to bring up the Jed Lowrie signing or trading for Marcus Stroman. The only thing keeping people from being more upset about acquiring Robinson Cano is that it netted the Mets Edwin Diaz. If fans could go back in time, the first thing they would do is stop him from becoming GM.

However, lost in all the negative moves were the few positives he made. The biggest of them being the acquisition of J.D. Davis from the Astros for three minor leaguers. Over his four years in Queens, Davis was one of the most reliable players. He slashed .278/.364/.451 with 37 home runs, 120 RBIs, and an OPS+ of 123. He was also a key contributor during the magical second half of the 2019 season, which saw the Mets get hot and challenge for a Wild Card spot.

Although his time with the Mets was generally positive, his career ultimately declined after he was traded during the 2022 season. Since then, Davis has slashed .239/.315/.391 with 22 home runs, 75 RBIs, and an OPS+ of 98. He was also never able to stay in one place, bouncing around between the Giants, Angels, Yankees, and A's. Now Davis starts a new chapter in his baseball career, signing a contract with the Seibu Lions of the Nippon Professional Baseball. Here's why Davis decided to go overseas.

Can playing in Japan turn J.D Davis career around?

The Seibu Lions are a team that MLB fans should be familiar with. It has produced many great Japanese MLB players like Yucesi Kikuchi, Kazuo Matsui, and former Mets pitcher Daisuke Matsuzaka. There have always been several MLB players who have followed a similar path to Davis, signing with the Lions after being unable to secure a contract with an MLB team. One of the most notable names is current Mets reliever Reed Garrett.

While Davis probably never envisioned himself playing in Japan, he could be just what he needs to turn his career around. The one thing that playing in Japan will do is give Davis everyday at-bats during in-game situations. Seeing live pitching will allow him to get an idea of what's causing him to struggle and what he needs to do in order to get back to the hitter he was with the Mets. Something that you can't do if you're only hitting in the cage or playing some simulated games.

His time in Japan will serve as an MLB tryout for Davis. It's a chance for him to put up good numbers and show teams he's still a capable hitter. If he's able to put together a solid season for the Lions, teams will be more likely to take a shot on him. Even if it's something as simple as a minor league contract, it will be a win for him. For now, all Mets fans can do is hope that Davis becomes another successful story about a player turning his career around overseas.