The 4 best early Christmas free agent signing gifts the Mets have ever delivered
By Tim Boyle
3) Endy Chavez
It was on December 22, 2005, when the Mets stole Endy Chavez away from the rival Philadelphia Phillies. Big deal, right? A light hitting outfielder who posted a .216/.260/.302 slash line the year prior would be quickly forgotten. Yes, he had some speed and could play defense. He’d never have a big moment for the Mets.
Dickey is remembered for one big year. Chavez has the singular moment. His game-saving home run robbery in Game 7 of the 2006 NLCS is quite possibly the most remarkable defensive play in club history. It’s up there with Mike Baxter protecting Johan Santana’s no-hitter. Ron Swoboda’s catch in the 1969 World Series, while in a more significant spot and a more positive outcome, doesn’t compare to the athleticism of what Chavez did.
A loss later that evening didn’t take away from how Mets fans feel about Chavez. He was already playing a significant role on them. In the regular season, Chavez found his way into 133 games for them. He batted .306/.348/.431. An outfielder with little expectation turned out to become one of the most important players of the year.