On Monday, New York Mets LF Dominic Smith talked about nearly being traded to the San Diego Padres over the weekend. In an interview, Smith said that while he would like a chance to play regularly, he's happy in New York.
This past weekend, reports surfaced that Smith was included in a trade package that would send Padres pitcher Chris Paddack to New York. While the trade never happened, a rumor leaked that Smith would have been happy to leave the Mets. On Monday, Smith put those claims to rest:
“I never said that [I want to be traded]. That’s something that didn’t come out of my mouth. I’m here with the Mets. I love this team. I love this city, and we have a great team. I think everybody’s goal is to win a World Series, and this team has a pretty good chance to.”
However, in a response to the idea he would welcome a trade, Smith admitted he would relish a chance to play every day. But he remained committed to finding that opportunity in a Mets jersey:
“That didn’t come from my mouth, but who wouldn’t want to play every day? Those exact words didn’t come from my mouth, but I’m here. It’s out of my control. I can’t trade myself, and I can’t put myself in the lineup. All I can do is show what I can, and that’s what I do out there on the field.”
Dominic Smith played 114 games in left field last year, compared to just 15 at first base, his preferred position. While Pete Alonso blocks his opportunity at first, look for Smith to make a push for a regular spot in left for the Mets.
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