Baltimore – Justin Hagenman Steps Up for the Mets

Justin Hagenman is still relatively new on the MLB scene, and the experience of pitching for the Mets can definitely be seen as a learning opportunity.

He’s had a fair number of appearances against various teams, showcasing his bravery, but last week was different—he started the subway series for the Mets.

He got off to a rocky start, but, in the end, he played a crucial role in helping the Mets secure a comeback victory.

Hagenman allowed back-to-back home runs to Jackson Dominguez and Aaron Judge in the first inning, but managed to stabilize after that, finishing with four runs on his record.

“It’s not how you want to begin, but I know I can compete,” Hagenman mentioned before the postponed game against the Orioles at Camden Yard. “There’s a sort of calm you have to find to get through the lineup again.”

The Mets are now in a tight spot; they need to get through this day before some much-needed rotational help arrives.

At 28 years old, Hagenman is expected to pitch in the second game of a double-header on Thursday, depending on how the first game unfolds.

Kodai Senga is lined up to start for the team in Kansas City after making a return from the injured list on Friday, while Sean Manaea is making his season debut on Sunday, teaming up with Clay Holmes.

Hagenman, who joined the team with the goal of adding depth to their rotation, has recorded a 4.35 ERA across his three appearances.

“When I signed, I simply hoped for a chance to contribute, and I’ve got that here,” he said. “It’s nice to be viewed as an option. I’m not quite sure when that will change.”

Pitching coach Jeremy Hefner commented that Hagenman had spent two weeks on the injured list with Triple-A Syracuse earlier this season, but returned with improved velocity and command.

“He had a little setback, but he’s back stronger and throwing harder,” Hefner noted, adding that Hagenman’s slider has improved as well. “His changeup is a strong point, and he’s very accurate. He tends to hit his spots well.”

Hefner was particularly impressed by Hagenman’s determination to maintain the Mets’ standing last Friday against the Yankees.

“It really reflects his attitude,” Hefner remarked. “He can sense things are tough, but he keeps his cool.”

Hagenman, who grew up just outside of Philadelphia in Voorhees, New Jersey, used to attend games at Camden Yard as a kid.

So, pitching there will feel like a dream come true for him. He mentioned that some friends and family would be in attendance.

Recently, he got called up by the Mets for a possible start in Philadelphia, but ended up pitching in relief against the Braves instead.

“There’s going to be a lot of ticket requests,” he admitted. “But pitching in Atlanta felt great. Facing such a formidable lineup was a win-win situation. Every pitch here feels like a win.”