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In Heat of Wild-Card Race, Mets Look to Rebound After Tough Loss to Angels
The New York Mets are deep in the wild-card race and looking to bounce back after a tough loss to the Los Angeles Angels. With the series finale set for Sunday afternoon in Anaheim, both teams have a lot on the line.
Saturday’s Heartbreaking Loss
Saturday night was rough for the Mets, who lost a nail-biter 5-4 to the Angels. The game was a roller-coaster ride, with the Mets overcoming an early two-run deficit, only to lose the lead in the seventh inning. J.D. Martinez’s grand slam in the top of the seventh gave the Mets a 4-2 lead, setting the stage for what seemed like a sure victory.
But then, Huascar Brazoban, making just his second appearance for the Mets since being acquired from the Miami Marlins, gave up a three-run homer to Zach Neto after striking out the first two batters he faced in the bottom of the seventh. This costly mistake allowed the Angels to reclaim the lead and ultimately secure the win.
Pitching Matchup: Jose Quintana vs. Griffin Canning
Jose Quintana
Jose Quintana (6-6, 3.89 ERA) will start for the Mets. Quintana has been solid this season and earned a win last Monday by allowing just one run over six innings in a 15-2 victory against the Minnesota Twins. In his career, he is 1-3 with a 4.18 ERA in five starts against the Angels, for whom he pitched in 2021.
Griffin Canning
Griffin Canning (3-10, 5.25 ERA) will take the mound for the Angels. Canning’s last outing saw him give up six runs in six innings against the Colorado Rockies. Despite his struggles, he has had success against the Mets, allowing just one run over seven innings in a start last August, though the bullpen took the loss in that game.
Key Players and Performances
Huascar Brazoban
Despite his role in Saturday’s loss, Mets manager Carlos Mendoza remains confident in Brazoban, emphasizing his potential to secure big outs with his strong arm.
Ben Joyce
The Angels’ rookie closer Ben Joyce showcased his potential by securing his first career save with a perfect ninth inning, highlighted by a 104.7 mph fastball to strike out J.D. Martinez. Joyce’s performance is a promising sign for the Angels’ future.
Young Talents Shine for Angels
The Angels’ top three batters on Saturday — Nolan Schanuel, Zach Neto, and Logan O’Hoppe — are all 24 or younger and played pivotal roles in the win. Manager Ron Washington praised their contributions, noting their significance in the team’s future.
Game Insights
- Mets’ Bullpen Woes: The Mets’ bullpen has been a point of concern, with only one pitcher, Adam Ottavino, having been on the active roster all season. The team’s ability to rebuild and strengthen their bullpen is crucial for their playoff hopes.
- Angels’ Future Stars: The Angels are showcasing their young talent, which bodes well for their long-term prospects, even as they aim to break a streak of losing seasons.
- Pressure on Quintana and Canning: Both starting pitchers will need to deliver strong performances to give their teams a chance at victory. Quintana’s experience and recent form could be a deciding factor, while Canning needs to rebound from his previous struggles.
Conclusion
As the Mets and Angels gear up for the series finale, the stakes are high for both teams. The Mets are looking to stay in the wild-card race, while the Angels are eager to build on their recent victory and showcase their young talent. With key players and pitching matchups in focus, fans can expect a thrilling and competitive game.
