Wright direction: David Wright returns to the field, goes 0-for-3

For many, yesterday (August 12) was a special one. Golf fans got to see Tiger Woods dominate the course again while football fans were getting excited for the regular season to begin. Mets fans? While their team may not be making many moves in the standings, a special member of the team has been making his way back up to the majors.

David Wright, the captain of the Mets, was finally able to play some baseball, news that can make any fan of the team happy. Playing for the Mets’ Class-A St. Lucie team, Wright went 0-for-3 with two strikeouts in five innings. He played third base during those innings, and only had a popup come his way. It was a major step for him to return to the majors for some playing time for the first time since May 2016.

David Wright's first AB in today's game pic.twitter.com/PeVEZiEqkE

— SportsNet New York (@SNYtv) August 12, 2018

Over the years, the 35 year old Wright has struggled with injuries, most recently regarding his neck, back and shoulders. Setbacks have not helped his cause in getting back to Citi Field. It wasn’t until recently where he could actually begin baseball-related activity again. Wright played in three minor-league games last August, but this was a major test for him.

It is impossible to judge him on his first game back from the complications he had. Many would be surprised if he could even be healthy enough to take a plane back to Flushing to play the remainder of the regular season with the Mets. Even if it is not this year, David Wright will look to take the time he believes is necessary in order to play professional baseball again. In regards to a return, Wright isn’t messing around. Speaking to the media (via Newsday), Wright had the following to say:

“I wouldn’t be out here in 95-degree sunny Florida dripping sweat if I didn’t think I could make it back. Not only just make it back; I’ve got to see results down here. In order to go up there and try to help those guys, I’m going to have to show I can be productive and be counted on to get some hits and make the plays.”

The old saying is, “One small step for man, one giant leap for mankind.” For Wright, this famous quote may mean more to him than anyone could ever know. While he didn’t blow minds with his playing ability on Sunday, the sheer fact that he can do something is nothing short of astonishing. The long road back is always tough, but David knows this.

While he has a long way to go, the seven-time All-Star is ready for whatever challenges lay ahead of him. For Mets fans, one glimmer of hope could be the start of a dream many thought were dead. Sometimes, you just gotta believe.