Peterson Struggles in Return as Mets Suffer Heavy Loss
David Peterson’s comeback to the rotation mirrored the ongoing struggles of this challenging Mets season.
The left-handed pitcher gave up seven runs (all earned) in just 3.1 innings during Wednesday’s 14-2 defeat against the Nationals at Citi Field.
Given the current state of the pitching staff, it’s likely Peterson will remain in the rotation or serve as a backup in the next game.
“He’s a significant part of this team,” commented Carlos Mendoza.
Peterson mentioned that timing issues contributed to his poor performance. He issued three walks but believes he can bounce back on his own.
“I’ve done it before, and I have confidence in my ability to turn this around,” he expressed.
Mendoza also showed faith in Peterson’s skills, noting, “The signs are encouraging. He’s capable of competing effectively in the strike zone.”
Peterson’s ERA stands at 8.10 over five starts this season, though he has only yielded one run in seven innings across two relief outings.
He did allow six earned runs in one of those starts.
“He’s been assertive out of the bullpen recently, utilizing all of his pitches and challenging hitters in the strike zone,” Mendoza observed.
The starting rotation is another challenge, as the Mets have few options amid widespread struggles from pitchers.
In relief, Sean Manaea had a rough outing as well, giving up six runs in just 2/3 innings.
Meanwhile, Luis Robert Jr. remained sidelined with lower back tightness. After undergoing an MRI, Mendoza is waiting on results.
The Mets have been cautious with Robert, wanting to avoid the injuries that hampered his game in the previous two seasons.
Not an ideal situation.
“Even after treatment, his back hasn’t improved much. We’re doing everything possible to keep him active,” Mendoza stated before the game.
With Robert out and Juan Soto restricted to designated hitter duties due to a left forearm strain, the Mets are looking to Carson Benge, who can play all three outfield positions.
Soto had a productive outing against the Mets, going 3-for-5 with a solo home run. Interestingly, he swung at a career-high 23.1 percent of pitches outside the strike zone, compared to his usual 17 percent.
Mendoza was asked whether teams might avoid giving Soto good pitches, especially with Francisco Lindor also absent. He noted, “Many teams pitch around him, but he needs to trust his teammates when they pitch to him.”
Francisco Alvarez is struggling as well, going 0-for-4 with three strikeouts, and hitting without a hit in his last 12 at-bats. Mendoza remarked that the catcher is “in the middle” of a slump.
On a different note, AJ Minter, recovering from latissimus dorsi surgery, is set to pitch in two more minor league rehab games this weekend. Depending on how that goes, Mendoza indicated that a left-handed pitcher might be used next week.
“We’ll see how it progresses. I’ve said we’ll approach this cautiously,” he explained.
In roster news, Tommy Pham, who had a brief stint with the Mets, cleared waivers and has become a free agent after going 0-for-13.
He’s been replaced by Austin Slater, another right-handed outfielder.
Additionally, the Mets have signed shortstop Jamari Baylor to a minor league deal. The 25-year-old played in the independent Atlantic League last season and hasn’t reached above High-A since being selected in the third round by the Phillies in 2019.
