One year ago this weekend, Mets general manager Sandy Alderson finally put an end to the nagging first base debate in Queens. When former first-round pick Ike Davis was shipped to Pittsburgh, the stage was set for Lucas Duda to assume a full-time role.

Since that moment, Duda has thrived and become more than just a regular for the current first place team in the NL East. After crushing 30 home runs last season, Duda is off to a torrid start in 2015 and pacing a 7-3 team as a legitimate No. 3 hole hitter. Last night, Duda racked up three more hits—including a late-game single off of an opposing lefty to give New York a lead over Miami.

Watch the video above for my thoughts on Duda, why he's emerged and how Alderson deserves more credit from Mets fans for the first base decision.

Are you ready to call Duda a star? Leave your thoughts below in the comment section!

Joe Giglio may be reached at jgiglio@njadvancemedia.com. Follow him on Twitter @JoeGiglioSports. Find NJ.com on Facebook.