Stanek Struggles as Mets Bullpen Option
ATLANTA – Ryne Stanek started the season as one of the key options for the Mets’ bullpen. However, as the final month of the season approaches, he’s finding it tough to remain on the roster.
The 34-year-old acknowledges his challenges, though he prefers to focus on improving rather than dwell on what he sees as a rough patch in his career.
“After playing for a while, you understand the business side of it,” Stanek mentioned, reflecting on his absence during the Mets’ recent 12-7 win. “My focus has to be on pitching and applying the feedback I receive. Worrying about my status could be a distraction.”
This season, Stanek has put up a 5.65 ERA over 50 appearances. His most recent outing was particularly tough; he gave up four runs in just eight innings during a 9-3 loss in Washington.
In August alone, Stanek has allowed multiple runs in three games, leading to an alarming 18.56 ERA this month. He has given up 11 hits across five innings, which definitely raises concerns.
Despite these struggles, Stanek’s raw abilities still shine through. His average fastball speed is in the 97th percentile according to Statcast, and he has an expected batting average against of .168. Yet, the actual opponents are hitting .229 against him.
“This is the best I’ve ever felt in my career,” he said. “I’m seeing improvements in speed, shape, and execution. But the results aren’t reflecting that. Is it a matter of sequencing or perhaps how I’m mixing my pitches?”
Stanek has found it odd that he can have solid stuff, yet the outcomes are poor. “If there was something obvious going wrong, it would be easier to address,” he remarked.
Last season, Stanek was a significant addition after being acquired from Seattle at the trade deadline. He took on a leading setup role when the Mets made the postseason and returned with a one-year, $4.5 million contract this year.
Initially seen as a key player for the Mets, Stanek’s inconsistency led to a shift in strategy. Following the trade deadline, the Mets brought in other pitchers, leaving him in a lower-leverage position.
Stanek reflected on the changes, admitting the preparations have altered significantly. “There are a lot of differences, but I won’t use that as an excuse. I need to perform when called upon,” he stated.
Manager Carlos Mendoza has been in touch with Stanek following his recent struggles. He noted, “I’ll keep supporting him. He shows flashes of hitting 100 mph, which is impressive, and we need to keep believing in his potential.”
Mendoza emphasized the necessity for Stanek to close out at-bats effectively when he’s ahead in the count. “He might be over the plate a bit too much, leading to more balls being put in play. There’s been some bad luck, but the critical factor is finishing those at-bats well,” Mendoza remarked.
