Mets Look to Bounce Back After Doubleheader Challenges
The Mets are exploring options for a starting pitcher, hoping to adjust their bullpen and lineup after experiencing a tough loss to Freddie Peralta during a doubleheader at Citifield.
Peralta had a strong performance this season, and the Mets witnessed his effectiveness, suffering a 7-2 defeat in the first game.
However, before the Mets—or even the Yankees—get too caught up in the idea of trading for the 29-year-old, they really need to focus on winning some games.
The Brewers, who have a history of offloading talented players before their contracts reach fruition, are currently vying for playoff positioning much like the Mets, who are still in contention for an NL wildcard spot.
In the second game of the doubleheader, Blade Tidwell, a lower-ranked pitching prospect for the Mets, provided a surprise boost, delivering four shutout innings in a 7-3 victory.
Carlos Mendoza, the Mets’ manager, described Tidwell’s effort as “huge,” noting that the bullpen contributed a scoreless 4⅔ innings. This teamwork allowed the Mets to regroup.
After limiting the Mets’ offense, Peralta was approached about the possibility of being traded before the deadline in less than a month.
“Honestly, I don’t really know,” Peralta remarked. “It’s happened before with the Brewers. I just focus on doing my best on the field every five days. There will always be rumors.”
The question of a trade has become more complex, especially considering Milwaukee’s recent move to send ace Corbin Burns to Baltimore prior to last season.
Unlike Burns, who had a hefty salary of $15.6 million last year, Peralta has a manageable option of $8 million for next season.
According to a recent report, there’s speculation that it’s a “long shot” for Peralta to be traded because of his affordable contract.
If the Mets don’t turn things around soon, they might find themselves missing out on significant trade opportunities.
Prior to their victory in the second game, the Mets had been on a troubling path, losing 14 of their last 17 games—experiencing a staggering minus 31 run differential over their last four losses, marking one of the worst stretches in franchise history.
The pitching staff has struggled, but the offense, which had been dormant, finally came alive with five runs in two innings during the second game after managing only six runs in their previous four losses.
Mendoza mentioned that he thought Peralta’s pitching started decently, but it quickly unraveled for the Mets. “Once he got off, it was immediate,” he noted.
“That’s what makes him special,” Mendoza added regarding Peralta. “When he’s in a jam, you have to take advantage. We’re struggling to capitalize on those moments. They did it with a grand slam from Joey Ortiz. We couldn’t do the same against Peralta.”
