The Mets’ 2017 season will be defined by Noah’s arc

The 2017 New York Mets season will be defined by a number of factors and the health of several key players. This has been the well-known narrative throughout the long, monotonous offseason. For this Mets fan though, there is another narrative that may define the season. This season will be dependent on Noah Syndergaard, and how much of the team he can hold on his back.

The 2017 season can be symbolized as Syndergaard’s Arc for many reasons. Coming off a season where he made his first All-Star game selection and was amongst the league’s elite pitchers in many statistical categories, Syndergaard is ready to put his foot down as the ace of not only the Mets, but also New York City. Syndergaard is in prime position to become a leader on the Mets, and teammates and fans alike are ready to follow.

How could you not stand behind the 6’6, 242 pound flame-thrower from Texas? He has a mean demeanor on the mound, and you know when he is in the game he is in it to win it. To go along with his on the mound presence, Syndergaard has a social media personality that is unique to the Mets community. This year, he will open the season as the Mets’ Ace.

While it is not known yet how successful Syndergaard’s season will go, his success could largely set the course for how this season goes for the Mets. If he is a fearless ace that is dominant on the mound, he will inspire his teammates and hopefully will them to be their best. If his season hits some rough patches and his bravado slips, so may his teammates.

Of course, behind Syndergaard the Mets have an excellent pitching staff. Jacob DeGrom, Matt Harvey, Steven Matz, Zach Wheeler and/or Robert Gsellman will be ready to also impress in 2017. On the offensive side of the ball, Yoenis Céspedes looks to lead an offensive that hopes to receive a returning power effort from Neil Walker and Asdrubal Cabrera, while also gaining contributions from a returning David Wright and Lucas Duda. If you’re looking for emotional leadership, and for someone to get the team fired up, look no further than Syndergaard.

During the 2015 World Series, Syndergaard made a name for himself by throwing very inside to Alcides Escobar. This excitement sparked a win for the Mets, their only of the 2015 series. From that point on, Syndergaard began to be known a pitcher that is not to be messed with. Syndergaard’s 2016 only cemented the fact that he can be an elite pitcher in the league. Between his dominant pitching talent and endearing yet string personality, Syndergaard has the “it” factor that can make the 2017 Mets elite. Bringing a distinct toughness that makes other teams fear him is unique to Syndergaard, and he hopes along with all Mets fans, that 2017 will be a year to remember for the Mets. For Syndergaard, the 2017 season is arc, and it is up to him which way he steers it.