Brodie Van Wagenen has expressed a desire to add a true center fielder this offseason, shift Brandon Nimmo and Michael Conforto to corner outfield spots, and use Jeff McNeil primarily at third base. All of that could impact J.D. Davis in a big way.
Davis spent 585.1 innings in left field in 2019 and 220 innings at third base. He was below average in left field and close to unplayable at third base, where he was worth -9 DRS.
Speaking at Citi Field on Wednesday during the Mets' kids holiday party, Davis said his preference was to play third base -- where McNeil is expected to be most of the time -- but that he would play anywhere the team needs him.
"I do feel a little more comfortable at third base just because that was where I was drafted. ... just being drafted as a third baseman and playing most of my games at third, I prefer that," Davis said. "If it's left field, so be it. Wherever the team needs me. I know we've got a lot of talent on this team. So wherever the team needs me, I'll play."
Davis said his time in left field was "pretty much the first time" he ever dove into the outifled and that it was rough at the beginning. He also explained that going back and forth from left field to third base was not easy.
"It was a little bit difficult coming from left field to third base just because of 150 feet difference," Davis said. "The ball gets on you a little bit quicker. But if I play third base, just like anything, more reps over there I'll be just fine. Just like anything. I'm comfortable, I'm confident over there and I'm excited."
Davis explained that he hasn't yet had a conversation with the Mets about what the expectations are for him position-wise in 2020, but that he's been preparing to play both third base and the outfield.
As things stand, it doesn't seem like Davis will get much time at third base in 2020. As far as the outfield, it the Mets add a true center fielder and don't trade any of their key players, Davis could be squeezed out there as well.
That would likely make Davis a bench player most days even though his offensive potential screams for him to be in the starting lineup. And that is why there has been speculation about what the future could hold for Davis as a Met.
For now, though, Davis will prepare and -- like most players -- will have an interest in what goes on next week at the Winter Meetings in San Diego. What happens there could have a huge impact on Davis' future and whether it will be with the Mets.