Mets’ David Wright says he’s feeling better and hopes to play next season
Mets captain David Wright poses for pictures with campers on Monday, Aug. 8, 2016. Credit: James Escher
David Wright’s recovery from neck surgery is going well. Campers at Coleman Country Day Camp in Merrick made it a point to ask.
Curious campers of all ages asked the Mets’ captain numerous questions Monday morning, ranging from his shoe size (11) to his favorite Disney movie (“The Incredibles”). But several concerned young fans asked Wright about his neck injury, which has sidelined him for all but 37 games this season.
“I’m moving around and feeling a lot better than I did,” he explained to one camper. “So hopefully I’m back next year. That’s what my goal is.”
Wright, who had a herniated disc in his neck, had surgery on June 16 that entailed inserting screws and a metal rod in his spine. He said his six-week checkup with the doctor showed positive signs, although he still doesn’t have the range of motion he did before the procedure.
Patience is key for Wright, as doing too much too soon will hamper his rehab. The full recovery takes three or four months, and he said his next “landmark” checkups will come at three and six months.
“Now it’s just a matter of being patient and allowing the screws and the plate to take place and really fusing together so hopefully there are no more problems in the future,” he told reporters.
Wright hopes to play next season, and he said it has been difficult to watch the Mets struggle to find consistency this summer. He can’t help the team on the field as captain, so he has focused his energy on carrying out the other responsibilities of his role.
“It’s definitely tough to sit back and watch the team, especially when we’re struggling, because that’s when you feel like you could go out there and really make a difference,” he said. “I’m trying to help in other ways, whether it’s in the clubhouse or being around to answer questions for some of the newer guys or some of the younger guys.”
Wright and his wife, Molly, just welcomed their first child, Olivia Shea, on July 23, and he said the baby has occupied much of his time. Still, he took the time to talk to young campers about how to succeed in sports and life.
“Hopefully you guys are the next wave of Mets,” said Wright, who will be 34 next season. “You know, I’m done in a couple of years, so hopefully you guys can come take my position and play third base for the New York Mets.”
