Mets shortstop Jose Reyes has played at the same position in nearly every game of his 14-year big league career. Sure, there’s been games here and there at second base or third — 93 to be exact — but Reyes has made a career of diving deep into the hole and turning double plays.
But the already-versatile Reyes plans to further expand his skill set this spring when he works out in the outfield, with the hopes of earning some playing time there next season. A full-time move there is unlikely considering the Mets’ already-crowded outfield situation, but there’s a backup at shortstop too, with Gavin Cecchini and maybe even top prospect Amed Rosario pushing for time.
Reyes wouldn’t be the first infielder to benefit from a part-time move to the outfield.
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Ian Desmond most recently made the switch, moving from shortstop to left field last season with the Rangers. Desmond led the league in outfield errors with 12, so the transition wasn’t completely seamless, but it didn’t effect his bat. Desmond had an All-Star season, hitting .285 with 86 RBI, 107 runs scored, 22 home runs and 21 stolen bases. He parlayed that into a five-year deal with Colorado this offseason.
Howie Kendrick also made a similar position switch with the Dodgers. A career second baseman with the Angels, Kendrick was traded to the other Los Angeles team and got stuck behind Chase Utley when the Phillies dealt him to the Dodgers at the trade deadline in 2015. When it looked like Kendrick would be squeezed out of the lineup, he forced his way back into it and made 94 starts in left field.
Milwaukee’s Ryan Braun was the National League Rookie of the Year award in 2007 as a third baseman. His bat was too good to take out of the lineup, but his glove was a liability. He made 26 errors at third base that season, was moved to left field the next and never looked back.
Pete Rose also won the NL Rookie of the Year award as an infielder, playing second base in 1963. He made a permanent position switch in 1967 and won two MVP awards and three batting titles as an outfielder.
Craig Biggio came into the league as a catcher and Robin Yount as a shortstop. Rex Hudler and Ben Zobrist have played every position but catcher and pitcher.
Whether or not Reyes can track down a fly ball is still unknown. But we do know that his speed and arm strength will translate to the outfield. The move has paid off for others, so why not Reyes?
Abbey Mastracco may be reached at amastracco@njadvancemedia.com. Follow her on Twitter @abbeymastracco. Find NJ.com on Facebook.
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