Former Met of the Day: Chris Woodward (2004-2006)

Chris Woodward was born June 27, 1976 in Covina, California. He was the 54th round draft pick of the Blue Jays in 1994. His 1st MLB game was with Toronto in 1999 against the Mets, he hit a sac fly in the 8-2 loss. After two seasons batting less than .200 he had his best year in 2002, batting .276 with 13 HRs & 45 RBIs. He became only the 15th shortstop to ever hit three HRs in one game, that August. Woodward spent six years in Toronto playing every infield position and occasionally designated hitter. After an injury ridden 2004 season he signed with the Mets as a free agent.

In 2005 Woodward was the ultimate utility player, playing at seven different positions, and batting .283. He was popular with the fans, and with manager Willie Randolph. He had nine multiple hit games and two game winning hits. Whether he was used as a late inning substitute or pinch hitter, it seemed he always played a key role on the team.

The next year he wasn’t as successful, his average dropped to .216. He still had 10 games with two or more hits and matched his HR total from 2005 (3) while driving in 25 runs (7 more than 2005). He had some points through the summer where he struggled mightily and after one appearance going 1-1 in the NLCS he was released by the Mets.

He signed on with Atlanta hitting only .199 in 2007. He currently plays in the Mariners minor league system, a lifetime .243 hitter.