The Mets roster is full of game changers. The pitching staff can change a game with their dominating stuff. Most of the lineup can change the game with the swing of the the bat. However, there’s only one gamechanging defensive player. 

Juan Lagares. 

Lagares won the Gold Glove in 2014 despite playing in only 116 games. He was that good. His UZR was 18.5, and his DRS was 26. These are elite numbers. His numbers were better in 2013 when his UZR was 21.5, and his DRS was 26. Overall, he’s a deserving Gold Glover. Time and again, he can change a game by getting to a ball no one else could field. He’s a game changer in the field. 

Except last year. Lagares’ offense and defense slipped noticeably. Yes, he had an elbow injury that was rumored to require Tommy John surgery. However, that would explain his offense and throwing more than his range. Last night, Lagares showed everyone that he’s back:

That right there is Lagares’ true value. He saved three runs there (even if it didn’t matter in terms of the game). While Terry Collins may look to platoon Lagares with Michael Conforto to get Lagares’ bat in the lineup against lefties. Collins is mistaken. The Mets don’t need Lagares’ bat. They need his glove. They need him out there late in the game to protect leads with his play in the field. 

He will make a catch like he made last night again – only next time it’s going to change the outcome of a game.