Mets Experience Managerial Shift but Struggle Continues
The Mets have a new interim manager, but it feels like the same old story. On Friday night, despite Andy Greene stepping in for Carlos Mendoza, the team’s performance against the Phillies left much to be desired.
With only five hits, the Mets extended their losing streak to seven games, unable to capitalize against Zack Wheeler. Greene’s first game as interim manager mirrored Mendoza’s struggles, highlighting the team’s ongoing issues.
Currently, the Mets (34-48) are at the bottom of the league, coming in 29th with an OPS of just .673. Their play was especially dismal, managing only one hit in the last five innings of the game.
On a brighter note, Zach Thornton showed promise in his second major league start. The left-hander was solid through five innings before faltering slightly in the sixth. He allowed just one earned run on five hits, alongside seven strikeouts and a walk.
Thornton began the game shaky, giving up three hits right off the bat, which included Bryce Harper’s RBI single and Trea Turner’s leadoff double, putting the Phillies on the board at 1-0. However, he recovered to hold the line in subsequent innings.
In a quick response, Derek Hill hit a two-run homer in the bottom of the first, bringing some life to the crowd. Carson Benge also contributed with a crucial steal.
As the game progressed, Jared Young brought the score to 1-1 with an RBI single in the fourth, taking advantage of Bo Bichette’s leadoff double against Wheeler.
However, the turning point came in the seventh inning. Huascar Brazoban allowed an RBI hit to Torii Turner that put the Phillies back in the lead at 2-1. This was unusual for Brazoban, who had been scoreless for seven games prior with a 1.82 ERA.
Wheeler excelled on the mound, showcasing his skills against his former team for the second time in under a week. He completed seven innings, allowing only one earned run with four hits along with five strikeouts and one walk. Having recently returned from surgery, he’s demonstrated impressive form this season, with a 2.03 ERA over 11 starts.
