Andy Martino, SNY.tv | Twitter |
LAS VEGAS - Sitting in the dugout of the Mets' Triple-A affiliate two hours before Wednesday's game, I asked David Wright the question on everyone's mind: Bottom line, do you expect to play in the major leagues this year?
Wright did not hesitate to answer in the affirmative.
"The simple answer to that is yes," he said.
A wide-ranging conversation followed about Wright's Mets career and long-term future (look for the entire interview on SNY and online tonight and into tomorrow). But the chat began with Wright clearly stating his intentions for 2018.
He followed by conceding the he was unsure of the timing.
"Do I know when [I'll play]? No," Wright said, also making sure to label himself "cautiously optimistic."
The captain's 20-day rehab clock expires on Friday. Rosters expand on Saturday, and the Mets' first September game at Citi Field isn't until Sept. 7. I asked Wright if he has a preference to debut at home or on the road.
"I want to play," he emphasized, while going on to admit that he had dreamed of returning in front of the home crowd. According to both Wright and other sources, the situation is truly day-to-day, with no set plan for a return.
Much more of this interview - including Wright answering questions about retiring this winter, and if he would ever manage - coming on Thursday.