Davis returns, focused on making impact

J.D. Davis was swinging a productive bat before he went down with a left hand sprain on May 1. Now that he has been activated from the IL and has rejoined the team, Davis might not have an everyday starting role, but he’s focused on filling in wherever the club needs.

Davis said returning as something other than an everyday starter is something that he's comfortable with, as his focus is on helping the Mets win in any way possible.

“I've always kind of voiced that when I got traded over here from Houston in 2019 -- I'm always here for the team, and the most important thing is to win ballgames any way we can,” said Davis, who was hitting .390 in 14 games before hitting the IL. "I'm just going to be here and continue to get my work in, continue to do scouting reports for the guys, hang out and do my part and be a good teammate. That's all I can do.”

Since Davis went on the injured list, Jonathan Villar stepped into a starting role at third base. In that time, Villar has posted a .770 OPS with nine homers and 15 RBIs.

Mets manager Luis Rojas said both Villar and Davis will see regular playing time, adding that Davis could be someone who is an impact player off the bench.

"Everyone here is an everyday player,” Rojas said. “Everyone here should be ready to come in and play. And with all that we've dealt with this season ... one person comes in, is ready to play, makes plays or delivers a big hit. I think J.D. should be on that same boat. That's kind of like our approach with him, his usage. Just for him to be ready when he gets a call [and] when he gets a chance.”