Mets Consider Pitching Role Changes for Manaea and Peterson

Following a hint the night before about potential changes within the Mets’ pitching staff, manager Carlos Mendoza confirmed on Wednesday that adjustments are indeed being contemplated.

This proposed shift would see Sean Manaea and David Peterson essentially swap their current roles. Manaea, who has been working in long relief all season, would transition to a starting position, while Peterson, who has been starting games, would move to a bulk relief role.

Before the Mets began their game against the Reds at Citi Field, Mendoza mentioned that the team had numerous options to consider, especially with a day off approaching on Thursday. He indicated that clarity would emerge soon.

Manaea has gained attention lately, showing promise with his recent performance. On Tuesday, he managed to keep his streak intact for a fourth game, giving up just one earned run over three innings, resulting in an impressive 3.09 ERA during this stretch.

When asked about his readiness to possibly join the rotation, Manaea commented that he feels like he is improving. “I feel like I’m growing enough,” he said.

In contrast, Peterson has struggled this season to find consistency, alternating between starting and relief roles. His recent outing against the Reds did not help, as he allowed six earned runs in five innings.

Interestingly, when pitching as a starter, Peterson has an opposing OPS of .837. However, that stat drops to .682 when he is in a bulk relief position. This disparity could influence the team’s decision.

Pitching coach Justin Willard noted Peterson’s recent improvements, expressing optimism. “I think he’s been solid, particularly over the last few innings,” he said, emphasizing the need for him to continue refining his pitch placement and understanding of weak contact.

Willard shared his thoughts on Manaea’s progress as well, saying that while Manaea started the season with a 6.97 ERA in April, he is getting back to the mechanics that worked for him in the past. Trusting in his pitches is also crucial, as Manaea incorporates a sinker and cutter into his routine.

While he had a strong start earlier in the season, Peterson’s performance dropped in late May, coinciding with the team’s overall offensive struggles. The pressures of recent games have certainly taken a toll.

Adding to the Mets’ challenges, rookie Zach Thornton had an eventful major league debut, giving up four earned runs in just over four innings last week. On Wednesday, the team called upon another rookie, Jonah Tong, to take on a bulk role behind opener Huascar Brazoban after Tong’s effective three innings of scoreless relief in Miami.

Complicating matters further, Clay Holmes, who was performing well until mid-May, is sidelined with a fractured right fibula. His absence impacts the rotation significantly.

Mendoza remains optimistic, though, stating, “We still believe in them. I’m happy with the rotation. They’ve faced tough battles, but I have faith in our guys. They’ve kept us competitive, and we need to support them through this.”