Pittsburgh Pirates vs New York Mets Picks and Predictions July 8th 2024

Back at .500, Mets continue pre-All-Star push vs. Pirates

The New York Mets are on a determined path to reach the All-Star break with renewed vigor. Following their recent victories, they find themselves back at an even 44-44 record. As they prepare to face the Pittsburgh Pirates in the concluding game of a four-game series on Monday, the Mets have their sights set on maintaining this upward trajectory.

Mets’ Recent Performance:

The Mets demonstrated resilience and tenacity in their last two games against the Pirates. After a staggering 14-2 loss in the series opener on Friday, they bounced back with a 5-2 win on Saturday and secured a thrilling 3-2 victory on Sunday. Francisco Lindor played the hero in Sunday’s game, delivering a clutch two-out, two-run single in the ninth inning off Aroldis Chapman.

Manager Carlos Mendoza praised the team’s perseverance:

“It’s impactful because we’ve been on the other side, too. You know and understand that, 162 (games), you’re going to win sometimes and lose some tough ones. And today, I’m glad we came out on a positive side. Again, the at-bats in the ninth — overall, a huge team win for us.”

With a record of 5-5 during a grueling stretch of 17 consecutive games without a break, the Mets are striving to build on their momentum.

First baseman Pete Alonso echoed Mendoza’s sentiment:

“Finding success, as the season’s gone along, I think it’s been really nice and I want to keep continuing that and helping this team win ballgames. I mean, we’ve come, collectively, such a long way to get back to .500 and I think this is a really good opportunity from today to keep moving forward in a positive manner.”

Pirates’ Struggles:

The Pirates, on the other hand, have faced challenges, losing four of their last six games. The absence of their injured closer, David Bednar, who is expected to start a rehab assignment soon, has been keenly felt. Bednar has been sidelined since June 23 due to a left oblique strain.

Aroldis Chapman, who suffered his third blown save of the season, struggled in the ninth inning on Sunday. Pirates manager Derek Shelton analyzed Chapman’s performance:

“He got ahead in counts. He had (Francisco) Alvarez 0-2 to start the inning and walked him. He had (Jose) Iglesias 1-2. We were a pitch away from the game being over. Overall command of the fastball was the biggest thing.”

Pitching Matchup:

Monday’s game features a pitching duel between Mets rookie Christian Scott and the Pirates’ Mitch Keller. Scott, who has a 4.32 ERA, returned to the Mets after a month at Triple-A Syracuse. In his recent outing against the Washington Nationals, he allowed four runs over 5 2/3 innings.

Keller, with a 3.48 ERA, is looking to recover from a tough game against the St. Louis Cardinals where he conceded six runs over five innings. Historically, Keller has fared well against the Mets, boasting a 2-1 record with a 1.89 ERA in three career starts.

Looking Ahead:

As the Mets strive to continue their push towards a successful pre-All-Star break, the upcoming game against the Pirates is pivotal. Both teams will be looking to capitalize on their strengths and address their recent shortcomings. For the Mets, maintaining their .500 record and building momentum is crucial, while the Pirates will aim to overcome their late-inning struggles and secure a win to boost their standings.

The Mets’ journey to the All-Star break is a testament to their resilience and determination. With each game, they are proving their mettle and setting the stage for a promising second half of the season.

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