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Washington Nationals: Where Adam Eaton Ranks Among NL East Center Fielders

By Matt Weyrich

Aug 2, 2016; Detroit, MI, USA; Chicago White Sox right fielder Adam Eaton (1) hits a single in the first inning against the Detroit Tigers at Comerica Park. Mandatory Credit: Rick Osentoski-USA TODAY Sports
Aug 2, 2016; Detroit, MI, USA; Chicago White Sox right fielder Adam Eaton (1) hits a single in the first inning against the Detroit Tigers at Comerica Park. Mandatory Credit: Rick Osentoski-USA TODAY Sports /
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Aug 2, 2015; New York City, NY, USA; New York Mets right fielder Curtis Granderson (3) hits a two run home run to right during the third inning against the Washington Nationals at Citi Field. Mandatory Credit: Anthony Gruppuso-USA TODAY Sports
Aug 2, 2015; New York City, NY, USA; New York Mets right fielder Curtis Granderson (3) hits a two run home run to right during the third inning against the Washington Nationals at Citi Field. Mandatory Credit: Anthony Gruppuso-USA TODAY Sports /

4. Curtis Granderson (NYM)

2016 Stats: 150 G, .237/.335/.464, .799 OPS, 129 H, 30 HR, 88 R, 59 RBI, 4 SB, 74 BB, 130 SO and 2.5 bWAR.

Curtis Granderson has spent most of the offseason surrounded by trade rumors, but the Mets now appear content with the 35-year old manning center field this season. Granderson hasn’t played center field regularly since he was with the Yankees in 2012, but he’s proven to be an above average defender no matter where he’s playing.

While Granderson, a .255 career hitter, has never hit for high average, he certainly makes up for it the power department. Granderson eclipsed the 30-homer mark for the fourth time in his career last season. Those aren’t the typical numbers you’ll see out of a leadoff man, but Granderson’s .335 on-base percentage was right up there with the best hitters on the team.

There’s little doubt that Granderson is going to be seeing the lion’s share of starts this season, but the variety of outfield options the Mets have could make a negative impact on his playing time. With Cespedes entrenched in left, Michael Conforto, Juan Lagares and Jay Bruce will all be in the mix for a spot in the everyday lineup.

Granderson’s been able to remain productive despite reaching his mid-30s. The Mets have a crowded outfield to say the least, but it’s safe to say that Granderson will play a major factor if this team is to make the playoffs.

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