ST. PETERSBURG, Fla. — Adrian Houser has played this position before, particularly as a reliever early on with the Brewers.
But the Mets’ new bullpen division, for an undetermined amount of time, has never struggled this much.
“This is probably the toughest time of my career so far,” Hauser said before the Mets’ 3-1 loss to the Rays at Tropicana Field on Saturday, the day after learning of the demotion. “So you just have to keep working every day and keep fighting back.”
The veteran right-hander has been sent to the bullpen next in the rotation and is expected to return as early as Monday after Thursday’s most recent misfire.
Hauser posted an 8.16 ERA in six games, but was left out of the rotation that welcomed top prospect Christian Scott, who made his debut on Saturday.
The Mets have an off day on Thursday, after which they will decide whether to reinsert Hauser into the rotation as the sixth starter or keep him in the pen.
Manager Carlos Mendoza said there would be “many” factors in the decision, from the bullpen situation to the schedule to the performance of each rotation member, but Hauser will likely iron out the issues before returning. There will be a need. As a successful starter.
He says the trajectory of his arms has become longer, which has messed up his command.
He believes he is improving.
“I just went to the bullpen. [session] Today,” Hauser said. “It was really good. I felt really good. Like I said after the last game, it was a step forward. Today was definitely another step forward and we’re getting where we need to be. be.”
Since establishing himself in 2019, Hauser has established himself as a starter in the Brewers’ back rotation, walking batters per nine innings at 6.28, which is significantly higher than last year’s 2.75.
He remains confident that he can straighten himself out.
“Obviously I’m disappointed in myself,” the 31-year-old said. “I have no one to blame but myself for not getting the job done. But there is still work to be done.”
At least for now, that job will be as an arm that can pitch innings and provide length.
Hauser wasn’t told of a specific niche in the bullpen, but said he would be ready if called upon.
“Keep going with your routine and watch the video to see what you’re doing wrong,” Hauser said. “We’re thinking about what we need to do and what we need to fix.”
