6 Bold Player Predictions For The 2017 New York Mets

These forgotten Mets will be forgotten no more.

1. Addison Reed saves 15 games in April.

With La Familia likely missing the first 30 games, the Mets' 8th inning man (and former closer) Addison Reed is the next man up.

With the Mets slated to play the Marlins/Phillies/Braves a combined 25 times during their first 30 games, there will be plenty of opportunities for Reed.

2. Michael Conforto starts in the OF by year's end.

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As of right now, we all clearly know there is no open spot for Conforto with veterans Jay Bruce, Curtis Granderson, and La Potencia each taking up the three OF spots, however, a lot can change throughout the season and If Conforto is hitting, they will find a spot for him. I've also heard he's lost weight and is primed to play some CF this season.

3. The Mets trade for Bartolo Colon at the trade deadline

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I really think this one comes true, not because the Mets starters experience health problems, but rather because he can be used in the bullpen and spot a starter here and there until the playoffs begin. I also think that he will push to be traded to a contender (maybe knowing this is his final opportunity to win) and I genuinely believe Bartolo will miss this Mets team.

4. Jacob Degrom will lead the team in ERA and wins.

We all know what Degrom is capable of when healthy, as evidenced in his heroic performances during the 2015 NLDS vs the dodgers. Degrom had many lingering injuries last year and had to deal with the stress surrounding the health of his newborn child. Ex-met and current Mets SNY broadcaster, Ron Darling, has noted that he came back from a similar injury as degrom and was back to himself the following season. It is safe to say Degrom will be back to his ACE stuff in 2017. Not to mention, he is finally being paid closer to his worth, which should leave him more satisfied and focused on baseball this season.

5. Travis D'arnaud starts 130 games, batting .280 with 20 hr and 60 rbi

There is no question amongst Mets fans and team personal that D'arnaud has the potential to be a great hitting catcher. Last year he took a step back by adjusting his batting stance and allowing his defensive issues to take ahold of him.

This is a big year for him to finally prove his potential, both offensively and defensively. I've been hearing that he's been working hard with the Mets' new 3rd base coach (also a catcher's coach) early in the offseason on his defensive issues.

6. The Mets will lead the NL in runs scored per game

2016 was a horrid offensive display by the Mets in every catagory outside of HR's. Their BA leader hit only .282 (Neil Walker) and the entire team struggled to drive runners in (especially with runners in scoring position).

2017, however, will be different. Health is obviously the major key, but with the potential for a Reyes-Cabrera-Cespedes-Bruce-Walker-Granderson 1 through 6 all not slumping at the same time, this lineup could really do damage. Anytime you have a 30 hr hitter like Lucas Duda potentially batting 7th in your lineup, you are in good hands.

Off the bench, the Mets will have fan favorite Wilmer Flores (who rakes vs. lefties), T.J Rivera (hit .333 in 33 games last season) and the potential return of Kelly Johnson.