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David Wright may miss Opening Day after latest injury news

By Nicholas Ian Allen

May 25, 2016; Washington, DC, USA; New York Mets third baseman David Wright (5) stands in the dugout against the Washington Nationals in the first inning at Nationals Park. The Mets won 2-0. Mandatory Credit: Geoff Burke-USA TODAY Sports
May 25, 2016; Washington, DC, USA; New York Mets third baseman David Wright (5) stands in the dugout against the Washington Nationals in the first inning at Nationals Park. The Mets won 2-0. Mandatory Credit: Geoff Burke-USA TODAY Sports /
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As the result of a shoulder issue tied to his June neck surgery, oft-injured New York Mets captain David Wright appears likely to miss Opening Day.

David Wright was all smiles in the Mets dugout during a spring training game Monday afternoon, but he (and Mets fans) aren’t smiling today after the latest injury news surrounding the 34-year-old third baseman. According to Anthony DiComo of MLB.com, Wright’s throwing program has been shut down following a diagnosis Wright received in New York on Tuesday.

Last season, Wright was limited to just 37 games because of a herniated disc in his neck. Mets GM Sandy Alderson addressed the media Tuesday, and told reporters that Wright has continually faced discomfort in his right shoulder this spring that severely limits his ability to throw. According to Alderson, the shoulder issue is likely connected to the neck surgery.

Wright appeared in only 75 games over the past two seasons and has played more than 134 games just once since 2010. A career .296/.376/.491 hitter, Wright posted a .226/.350/.438 slash with seven home runs and 14 RBI last year. The seven-time All-Star hit .301/.382/.506 with 222 home runs over his first 10 big league seasons, but has seen his production dip to .266/.339/.396 with 20 homers in 209 games since.

Unable to throw until late March, Wright will likely be limited to DH in Grapefruit League games as he rests his shoulder. Therefore, it seems highly unlikely that he’ll be ready to play third base on Opening Day. Wright appears headed for the disabled list, though if he’s able to contribute as a pinch hitter, it’s possible Alderson and Mets manager Terry Collins could keep him on the roster during an April stretch that includes 25 games against NL East rivals.

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With Wright unable to play the field, Jose Reyes is the likeliest replacement at third base. Reyes posted a .267/.326/.443 slash with 25 extra base hits, including eight home runs, in 60 games last season. The 33-year-old switch-hitter played 50 games at third for the Mets last season.

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