WASHINGTON – In two games since taking over at the center, Kevin Pillar reminded the Mets that he was able to incorporate another powerful bat into the lineup.
Pillar blew a big slam in the ninth inning on Sunday to put the finishing touches on the demolition of the Nationals by the Mets by 13-6, a day after hitting a two-run blast in the team’s loss in the hood of a double head.
Brandon Nimmo’s position on the list of injured with a right hamstring tendon changed Pillar’s job description on Saturday from being able to backup to headlining at the center.
“I was prepared for my chance,” Pillar said. “It is unfortunate that Nimmo has come down again, but I am ready. I work every day like I’m going to play every day. I’m constantly making adjustments. “
Pillar received a significant playing time early in the season with Nimmo at IL due to a tearing ligament in his left hand. Pillar’s playing opportunities had been limited in the second half, with Nimmo, Michael Conforto and Dominic Smith receiving most of the playing time. Lately, this cast has included Jeff McNeil in the left field mix.
But Pillar has taken advantage of his chances. Sunday’s match was the fourth in his last seven games, a stretch in which he has ridden in ten races.
“I try to throw the ball a little less,” Pillar said. “I’m letting the pitch travel a little more, I’ve got good results, but I’m confident in my ability. I’m appreciating trying to give the team a good play every time … trying to get the pitcher to work. “
Pillar said his resolution to stretch the ball less came because he was fooled into too many off-speed fields. Pillar of the season owns a line of bar .224 / .265 / .422 with 14 home runs and 39 RBI in 268 bats.
“Since I was very young I’ve been a lifelong attacker since I was little, it’s something I shouldn’t try to do,” he said. “It’s something I just have to react to, and getting a little closer to the plate, getting a little closer to the box, has changed my field a little bit.”