New York Mets: 3 keys to victory in the NL Wild Card Game

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Sep 22, 2016; New York City, NY, USA; New York Mets third baseman Jose Reyes (7) hits a two run home run against the Philadelphia Phillies during the ninth inning at Citi Field. The Mets won 9-8. Mandatory Credit: Andy Marlin-USA TODAY Sports /

2. Jose Reyes has to spark something

Reyes is a controversial player given his history of domestic violence, but he has been fully embraced by his clubhouse thanks to his ability to provide a spark. Reyes is no longer the same dynamic player he was during his first stint with the Mets, but he still has the ability to create excitement on the bases.

Reyes led off for the Mets 60 times this season, and the team went 35-25 in those games. This season, the former All-Star and batting champion slashed .267/.326/.443 with eight home runs and nine steals. He also hit four triples and scored 45 runs. The 2016 season was Reyes’s first since 2013 with a slugging percentage over .400.

The Mets are going to need to try to jump Bumgarner early, and Reyes is the player who can help them get that done. He has lost a step, and is no longer a good defensive option at shortstop, but Jose Reyes can jumpstart an offense in any given at-bat. Ahead of Cespedes, Granderson, and Cabrera, that can be scary.

Reyes came to the Mets as a polarizing figure, fresh off a lengthy suspension. It was viewed as a reach for the Mets, with Reyes seen as a washed-up star with plenty of baggage. He has managed to leave all that in the past, and play with his signature energy and smile.

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