What Zach Thornton of the Mets will contribute in his major league debut

Thornton Set for Major League Debut

WASHINGTON — Zach Thornton, who has a slender physique, might find that works in his favor as a pitcher.

Standing at 6-foot-3 and weighing 170 pounds, Thornton is slated to make his major league debut with the Mets on Wednesday, either as a starter or coming in after the opener. His pitching style is what has really caught everyone’s attention.

“I’m not the heaviest guy around,” Thornton mentioned at Nationals Park on Tuesday.

“It’s all about proving the naysayers wrong—those who said, ‘He couldn’t do it,’ and especially those who believe, ‘He can do it.’”

The Mets admire Thornton for his precision in throwing strikes, and he’s stepping into a significant role due to Clay Holmes’ fractured right fibula, an injury he sustained when hit by a line drive from the Yankees’ Spencer Jones last Friday.

This season, Thornton has started seven minor league games, achieving a 3.16 ERA. He made two appearances in the Grapefruit League, managing to impress coach Carlos Mendoza.

“I view every game like it’s a big deal. I just want to compete out there,” said Thornton. “I consider myself the ultimate competitor—the one who consistently throws strikes.”

Syracuse opted for Thornton over Jack Wenninger and Jonah Tong, while the Mets also have bullpen starters like Tobias Myers and Sean Manaea in the mix.

Mendoza was asked about Nick Morabito’s recent promotion to the majors and its implications for Juan Soto, who might see more time as a designated hitter.

“Soto is our left fielder, but we hope to get some players back from the injured list soon. For the moment, those guys will probably have to play DH, while Juan stays busy in left field,” Mendoza explained.

The Mets lead the majors, having played in 10 extra-inning games this season, winning six of them—also the highest in MLB. Their most recent game was a dramatic 16-7 victory over the Nationals in the 12th inning on Monday.