Eddie C: Nobody Knows When Wright Will Return, So What Does Sandy Do Now?

By Ed Coleman
» More Columns

Mets captain David Wright arrived in San Diego Tuesday, anxious to see his teammates and friends that he's been away from since April 14.  Yes, he will play again this season. And no  -- this is the hard part -- he still doesn't know when.

Wright spoke with the media for over 20 minutes, and detailed exactly where he is right now.

The uncertainty about the time frame for his return has been particularly frustrating for a guy who would prefer to play tomorrow.  Wright said that he's been told by his doctors that he's too young for the surgery option; that is best for older people who don't have to go through the rigors that a professional athlete does, and it's something to be avoided at all costs.  But Wright never had any doubt that he would play again

Wright will continue his therapy in California the rest of this week and be re-evaluated again on Monday, as he is each week.  But even when he does come back, he most certainly will need breaks to rest if -- and probably when -- back problems occur again.

So where does all this leave the Mets at this point in time?  Mets GM Sandy Alderson fielded questions after Wright spoke, and there are issues that are still murky and somewhat nebulous.

Nonetheless, Alderson does feel that some things are clearer than they have been concerning Wright.

Daniel Murphy's best position just may be third base.  Ruben Tejada is performing adequately there at the moment.  Wilmer Flores could slide over from shortstop and play a position he handled well while filling in for Wright last season.  Alderson does not want to get into an excessive amount of switching, but who does he think can man third base when Wright is not available?

The Mets always like to look internally first, so what are the options there?

They're not looking to replace Wright now. But do they have to look outside for a versatile player, one who could play several positions? That player could serve as a possible fill-in for Wright when the seven-time All-Star is healthy and playing.

Do we have more clarity now?  Yes.  Do we have total clarity?  No. Wright will be back, but will his back be incident-free?

That's another story, says Alderson.

C U soon
Eddie C.

In:
• New York Mets