Sean Manaea’s Strong Performance Despite Challenges

One of the most uplifting aspects of Sean Manaea’s performance in Wednesday’s 6-3 win over the Angels was that he managed to limit the damage, giving up only one run in five innings, even when he wasn’t at his best.

This game marked another step forward for Manaea. He had been sidelined for the first half of the season due to an oblique strain, which was complicated by a loose body discovered in his left elbow during spring training. Since his return on July 13, he has made three appearances for the Mets, allowing just three runs over twelve innings, and offering a sense of stability to the rotation.

Mets manager Carlos Mendoza noted that Manaea’s performance was particularly impressive given that he wasn’t exactly sharp. “He found a way to get through five innings and fought,” Mendoza said. “It was good to see it today. He might tell you he didn’t feel it for various reasons.”

And it seems Mendoza was spot on.

“I definitely didn’t feel great, but it was good enough to get the job done,” Manaea remarked. “It was effective enough,” he added. His expectations moving forward are quite high, especially since the Mets are keeping a close eye on Clay Holmes’ pitch count. Meanwhile, Kodai Senga and Frankie Montas are also being monitored to ensure their health, having dealt with issues earlier this season.

On Wednesday, Manaea seemed to take charge from the start. However, he faced a bit of adversity in the second inning, when he loaded the bases with no outs. Fortunately, he managed to escape the jam without letting the Angels score any runs.

The only hiccup came when Mike Trout hit a home run with two outs in the third inning. After that, Manaea retired the final seven batters he faced, finishing the game with five innings pitched and a season-high of 82 pitches thrown.

“In terms of stamina, I’m not completely there yet,” Manaea admitted. “I have to do a better job in maintaining my focus and execution.”

Nonetheless, he credited the adjustments he made, particularly with the lower arm angle he adopted mid-season last year, as essential to his successful outing despite not being at his peak. He believes that with more innings in a major league setting, he’ll return to where he wants to be.

“I’m definitely an adrenaline guy,” Manaea said. “It’s hard to replicate that feeling elsewhere…I feel good overall.”

Given his injury issues this season, he expressed a desire to make his next start. The Mets have a bit of a break on Thursday, allowing him an extra day of rest before their West Coast trip begins in San Francisco on Friday, followed by a series in San Diego.