Tonight’s game was all about the debut of Steven Matz. We knew he could pitch, but he can also help his own cause at the plate. He went 3-3 with 4 RBIs. It is funny how the offense struggles to score more than two runs, yet a pitcher in his first game drives in four runs. He also went 7.2 innings, allowed two solo homers, and struck out six.
- Curtis Granderson‘s hot streak continues, as he went 2-5 with 2 RBIs. Hopefully he can continue his streak against the Cubs and Dodgers this week.
- Wilmer Flores started this game at second base, and Ruben Tejada played shortstop. It looks a lot better defensively, as the team turned two double plays.
- Todd Frazier and Brandon Phillips hit homers for the Reds, and Phillips would be taken out of the game due to a wrist injury.
- Eric Campbell did not register an at-bat tonight, as he was hit by a pitch, and drew threw three walks. He also scored three runs, thanks to Granderson and Matz driving in runs.
- It was surprising to see Terry Collins send Matz out for the eighth inning, especially when the organization is concerned about managing innings.
The Mets have won their fourth straight game, and will begin an important series against the Chicago Cubs on Tuesday at Citi Field.
Here’s a reaction boooooo-yaaaaaa!!!
Sandy get us some hitters or find a position to put deGrom, Matz, and Syndergaard in.
Mets were in 7th heaven this afternoon. It wasn’t because of the seven runs they scored but the marvelous pitching and hitting of Steve Matz. We also saw a better defensive alignment. Reinforcements are on the way with Murphy and his 108 wRC+ replacing Campbell and his 55 wRC+ next Tuesday. It is time to send Herrera and his 75 wRC+ down so that he can get his at bats and regroup. He will be back once Tejada cools off. That is four in a row and a pick up of a full game on the Nats. The Cubs are ahead of the Mets in the playoff race so 2 of 3 will pick up ground. The Cubs are also beginning to look at Niese so maybe this week will end with another bat for the lineup and Campbell can also go down to Vegas. This game was very uplifting for this fan who still has the specter of the seven game losing streak still haunting him.
Metsense, when Tejada has cooled off, and Herrera comes back up, he will be a 2B and Flores back to SS?
I would think so unless they get an infield bat from either the Cubs or Dodgers who are rumoured to be looking at Niese (and pitching in general) The Cubs are in town next followed by a trip to the coast to play the Dodgers. It may generate some one on one trade discussions and maybe Sandy can get two better bats to improve the lineup. I have no clue as to who at this time.
The reason Collins sent out in the 8th was the result of using the pen the first game albeit a completed game from the previous day. I would rather see him leave the starters in the game one batter too long then continue with his match up frenzy that hasn’t really worked with his LOOGY’s.
Completely agree with using starters more than relievers. I have always believed that the starters should be the ones pitching if the game is on the line. Let them win or lose it. Rather have that happen than letting the bullpen give up the lead.
This case was interesting since the innings limit is being heavily discussed this season, and Matz is one of the pitchers who’s innings are being monitored. I don’t think we will see him going longer than seven innings too many times from here on out.