Pitching Strategy Update for the Mets

In Washington, the Mets have decided to continue with their current five starting pitchers, opting against adding a sixth.

This includes pitching Kodai Senga against the Phillies for the first time since 2023.

Throughout this season, the Mets have only asked their starters to pitch on four days’ rest 22 times. Senga typically needs five days to recover, while Holmes usually benefits from the extra day to adjust from bullpen duties. In those 22 games, the Mets’ starters have posted a 5.55 ERA.

However, following a close 5-4 loss to the Nationals on Wednesday—marking their second game in 16 days during a stretch of 16 games—the Mets aren’t considering adding a sixth starter for additional rest.

Pitching coach Jeremy Hefner mentioned, “Early in the season, you can push a bit more. When the schedule gets packed late in the season, it’s beneficial if they’re in good form.”

Despite Senga’s struggles, where he gave up five runs and took six hits in five innings, the team believes the group is responding well. But this plan means Senga will be pitching on shorter rest for the first time this season.

David Peterson, set to pitch on Sunday with just four days of rest, has a 7.20 ERA in such situations. Meanwhile, Holmes has recorded a 4.12 ERA on four days of rest and a lower 3.34 ERA when given five days.

Alternatively, the team could either bring Franky Montas back into the rotation or consider calling up Brandon Sprout, who pitched recently in Triple-A Syracuse.

Yet, Hefner pointed out that changes to the schedules of top prospects have been influenced by the Syracuse team’s loss of MacLean, complicating things for teams with limited roster flexibility.

Potential adjustments could also involve Reed Garrett, the only reliever available from Syracuse, who has been a key player for them.

Another possibility could include dealing with Ryne Stanek, who has struggled but has a fastball clocking in at 100 mph and a solid postseason history.

The Mets might find opportunities to bring up Sprout or rehabilitate Tyler Megill, who is expected to return around September 1.

Megill is currently recovering from a right elbow sprain, having pitched 3¹/₃ innings with 55 pitches recently in Double-A Binghamton.

There’s some hope that Jose Ciri can return this season, whereas Jesse Winker’s chances appear slim.

Ciri, who sustained a devastating left tibia injury after just 10 games, is anticipated to begin rehab next week, according to coach Carlos Mendoza.

Jesse Winker, who has been sidelined since early May with back inflammation, “is facing challenges in recovery,” Mendoza noted.

Mendoza added, “For now, our objective is to see him back at some point, but we’re just taking it day by day.”

Meanwhile, Mark Vientos has been consistent, starting his third game in a row after being out for two contests, while Ronnie Mauricio hasn’t played since Saturday.

“There’s competition for Vientos,” Mendoza said. “We need him. He’s a solid player.”