Weaver Reflects on Recent Struggles with Mets
LOS ANGELES — Luke Weaver is trying to make sense of his recent performance with the Mets, perhaps attributing his initial struggles to the unpredictable nature of baseball.
However, after a particularly rough outing against the Athletics on Saturday, he started to reflect more deeply on his approach. “I think I’m putting pressure on myself to perform for the team and make an impact,” Weaver noted before the Mets’ 4-0 loss to the Dodgers on Monday. “I just want to win.”
He continued, “When you simplify things to the point of thinking, ‘Whatever we’re doing is good enough,’ it allows for incremental improvements. We’re not looking to overhaul anything; it’s about trusting the group and knowing we’re better when we work together.”
Weaver, who signed a two-year deal for $22 million, had a tough outing where he gave up four earned runs from three hits and one walk over eight innings. Earlier, in a game against the Diamondbacks, he managed only two outs, conceded two hits, let in two unearned runs, and failed to secure a save.
“I have to stay more aggressive and in attack mode. I shouldn’t be trying to make defensive pitches,” Weaver expressed. “There are multiple factors at play, and they’re creating pressure that’s building in this already tense environment.”
Coach Carlos Mendoza mentioned that Clay Holmes had a side session and has been cleared to start on Wednesday. Holmes was sidelined Friday due to discomfort in his left hamstring.
As for Juan Soto, Mendoza confirmed that he is still dealing with a strained right calf and hasn’t resumed running. However, he remains on track for a two to three-week recovery timeline since going on injured reserve eight days ago.
Mendoza added that it’s still uncertain whether Soto will need minor league at-bats before rejoining the Mets. There’s a chance he might participate in a mock game at Citi Field. Additional imaging tests may be scheduled “soon” to further assess his progress.
In roster news, Ronnie Mauricio has been optioned to Triple-A Syracuse to clear a spot for Tommy Pham. Mauricio was called up for the Mets’ last homestand to add depth to the bench. Recently, he had a notable 1-for-4 performance that included a walk-off single against the Diamondbacks on Tuesday.
