When Edwin Diaz joined the Mets as a notable trade acquisition in 2020, he didn’t have the easiest start with the team or its fans. So, he gets what Ryan Healthley is dealing with during his first month. It’s been tough.
On Tuesday night, Healthley gave up another lead, allowing the Phillies to tie the game in the eighth inning, but the Mets salvaged a 6-5 walk-off victory.
“I’ve been there, and my advice is to keep your head up and stay the course,” Diaz said, who closed out the game with the final five outs. “We believe in him. He’s a talented pitcher, one of the top closers in the league. It’s rough right now, but we’re supporting him. Keep that chin up.”
The Mets had acquired Healthley, who saved 49 games for the Cardinals last season, and also traded Gregory Soto and Tyler Rodgers to enhance their bullpen ahead of the July 31 deadline.
Unfortunately, Healthley allowed a two-run homer to Harrison Bader, blowing a 5-3 lead and marking ten runs allowed total this season, dragging his ERA to 10.38 over just over eight innings.
It’s clear some folks are worried about his four blown saves in 11 appearances, and he seems to be struggling on the mound.
“We need to get Healthley back on track,” said manager Carlos Mendoza. “He’s too good to be letting hitters take such good swings at his fastball or make solid contact with his slider.” There’s definitely something off, as opposing teams are finding it too easy to hit against him.
Diaz himself dealt with a 5.59 ERA early in his Mets career but turned things around, eventually winning over the Citi Field crowd after moving from the Mariners in 2019.
This season, three All-Stars have combined for 24 saves, boasting a 1.60 ERA with 76 strikeouts in 50⅔ innings. Yet, on Tuesday, Healthley faced challenges, hitting four of the first five batters he dealt with. After Trea Turner, Kyle Schwarber, and Bryce Harper, Brandon Nimmo secured the win for the Mets with a single against the loaded Phillies lineup.
