Padres: Is there a better redemption arc than that of Wil Myers?

In years past, words like ‘overbloated’ and ‘obscene’ were thrown around pretty casually attached to Wil Myers’ six-year, $83 million contract. But now, everybody is talking about the slugging Padres outfielder in very different terms.

On Monday, Myers drove in five runs as San Diego rolled to a series-opening win over the Pirates at PNC Park, almost singlehandedly carrying the Padres’ offense.

If Myers’ hot start caught you by surprise, you must not have been paying attention last summer. Sure, it was a shortened 60-game season, but Myers made some changes that really paid off in a big way at the dish. 

His .959 OPS in 2020 was far and away the best of Myers’ career. In just 55 games, he belted 15 home runs and slugged .606. Early on this year, he’s been even better, slashing .359/.444/1.137 with 11 RBI heading into the late innings Monday – the second-most among NL hitters. He’s locked in on a level like we’ve never seen before, making the art of hitting look far easier than it actually is.

Padres have plenty of superstars – and that suits Wil Myers just fine

Myers never seemed like he wanted to be the guy in San Diego. Now, surrounded by superstars like Manny Machado, Fernando Tatis Jr., Eric Hosmer and others, he doesn’t have to be. Instead, he can fly under the radar and absolutely mash.

In the newfound era of Slam Diego, Swag City central, Myers’ understated, keep my head down and do my job mentality is a perfect compliment to the high energy, in-your-face personas around him on this roster.

Seriously, feel good story of the year? OK, Trey Mancini coming back from cancer to return to the Orioles takes that title, but it feels great watching Wil Myers put on a clinic on a nightly basis for this San Diego Padres ball club. I’m here for it. Myers for MVP? Don’t sleep on it.