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New York Mets: 3 best DH options for shortened season

By Matt Graves

PHILADELPHIA, PA - MAY 11: Yoenis Cespedes #52 of the New York Mets in action against the Philadelphia Phillies during a game at Citizens Bank Park on May 11, 2018 in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania. The Mets defeated the Phillies 3-1. (Photo by Rich Schultz/Getty Images)
PHILADELPHIA, PA - MAY 11: Yoenis Cespedes #52 of the New York Mets in action against the Philadelphia Phillies during a game at Citizens Bank Park on May 11, 2018 in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania. The Mets defeated the Phillies 3-1. (Photo by Rich Schultz/Getty Images) /
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Dominic Smith (Photo by Adam Hunger/Getty Images)
Dominic Smith (Photo by Adam Hunger/Getty Images) /

LF. 1B. 2. player. Scouting Report. Pick Analysis. Dominic Smith. 3

Dominic Smith’s slash line coming off the bench last season was .318/.434/.568. His success as a pinch-hitter is an encouraging sign he would succeed as the Mets DH.

When he wasn’t pinch-hitting, Smith hit .282/.355/.525 with 11 home runs and 25 RBI.

The National League adopting the DH rule is excellent news for Smith. There is some flexibility with Smith too. He’s a versatile defender who can play left field and first base. He’s not a strong defensive asset, but his bat suggests otherwise.

Smith could see some time at first with reigning NL Rookie of the Year Pete Alonso assuming the DH role. That would afford Smith to get extra playing time while Alonso can stay fresh from playing in all season.

If Alonso’s bat is hot, then Smith won’t find time playing at first, he’ll have to try to squeeze his way into playing left field. But even if  Céspedes is healthy and hitting, the Mets should have no problem rotating him and Smith. To keep  Céspedes from sustaining another injury, Smith could be called upon for extra work.

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