WEST PALM BEACH, FL – MARCH 11: Robinson Cano #24 of the New York Mets during a spring training baseball game against the Houston Astros at Fitteam Ballpark of the Palm Beaches on March 11, 2019 in West Palm Beach, Florida. The Astros defeated the Mets 6-3. (Photo by Rich Schultz/Getty Images)
The New York Mets have to be thrilled with their start to the 2019 season, as Robinson Cano gave them an early lift and some hope with a first-inning blast.
Many fans of the Amazin’s rolled their eyes when the Mets acquired Robinson Cano in a trade from the Seattle Mariners. At least for one moment, they can all stand up and applaud in unison.
On Thursday, New York took an early 1-0 lead against the Washington Nationals, with Cano taking Max Scherzer deep to left-center field. The homer came in Cano’s first at-bat with the Mets, after spending five years with the Mariners and nine with the New York Yankees.
Cano, 36, might not end up being a terrific bargain for New York, but new General Manager Brodie Van Wagenen has to feel good about the move right now. The Mets were also able to acquire All-Star closer Edwin Diaz in the same transaction, helping to remake a bullpen that has been one of the Major’s worst in recent years.
If the Mets can show some signs of progress this year, it would be a step in rebuilding trust with a fanbase that has long been scorned. New York did reach the World Series in 2015, but much of the past decade has been filled by cheap offseasons and injuries to star players.
Cano’s home run might not mean much in the grand scheme of things, but it’s a fantastic way to start the season for a team that could use the positive vibes.