Donovan Walton seeks Mets roster spot due to injury

Donovan Walton is hoping for a chance to play for the New York Mets after an injury to Jeff McNeil. His performance in a recent game against the Marlins included starting at second base, where he went 0-for-3 but scored a run in a 6-5 win. The Mets are looking at various players due to McNeil's oblique injury. Manager Carlos Mendoza highlighted Walton as a solid player who knows how to contribute. He also mentioned Luis De Los Santos, who was reassigned to the minor leagues, underscoring Walton and De Los Santos’s experience in the big leagues. Walton, 30, has played 70 major league games across five seasons since 2019. He joined the Mets on a minor league deal after last season with the Giants. Interestingly, Walton was drafted by the Mets in 2012 but chose to go to college instead. His father, Rob Walton, is a coach, and they shared a memorable trip to Shea Stadium in 2003, which sparked Walton's love for the Mets. Despite having never played more than 25 games in a season, Walton emphasizes his role in contributing to the team's success. With McNeil sidelined and the utility position open, Walton sees a potential opportunity. He remains focused on the present, saying he will continue to work hard whether or not he makes the team.