The New York Mets have signed former San Francisco Giants rookie David Villar to a minor league contract, aiming to revitalize his career. Villar, 27, showcased promise during his 2022 rookie season with the Giants, posting a .231/.331/.455 slash line with nine home runs and 24 RBIs in 52 games. However, his subsequent major league performances have been less impressive, leading to his release by the Giants. The Mets are hopeful that Villar can rediscover his form and contribute to their lineup.
Villar’s minor league statistics are notable, with a .272 batting average, .366 on-base percentage, and .493 slugging percentage over seven seasons. He has accumulated 147 home runs and 379 RBIs, indicating significant power potential. Despite his struggles in the majors, the Mets see value in his minor league track record and are providing him with an opportunity to prove himself.
The Mets’ decision to sign Villar aligns with their recent strategy of acquiring players with potential for a career resurgence. Under the leadership of President of Baseball Operations David Stearns, the team has successfully rehabilitated the careers of players like José Iglesias, who had a standout season after joining the Mets. This approach reflects the Mets’ commitment to developing talent and maximizing player performance.
While Villar is expected to start the season with Triple-A Syracuse, the Mets are optimistic about his potential impact. His performance in the minors will determine his readiness for a call-up to the major league roster. The Mets’ coaching staff is prepared to work closely with Villar to address areas of improvement and harness his strengths.
In summary, the Mets’ signing of David Villar represents a strategic move to bolster their roster with a player who has shown flashes of brilliance. If Villar can recapture his earlier form, he could become a valuable asset for the Mets in their pursuit of success this season.
