Yesterday’s win felt almost like a regular season game. Max Scherzer faced off against the ace of the Astros, Framber Valdez. Scherzer went seven innings allowing four hits and no runs (surprisingly deep into the game at this point in spring). Valdez went 4 2/3 allowing only one run (quasi-deep into the game at this point in spring). Drew Smith got a hold striking out the side. Tommy Hunter continued his amazing spring getting the save after striking out two and allowing a hit in the ninth inning. Just a great day all around for the Mets.
Today’s game against the Cardinals is an important one for the Mets major position battle – the 5th starter. Both David Peterson and Tylor Megill are scheduled to pitch today! Further Mark Canha is getting the start in center as the Mets look at their short term options for Brandon Nimmo.
Three Things To Watch For:
- David Peterson: Peterson pitches in his fourth spring training game this afternoon looking to build on his spectacular start earlier in the week. So far this spring he has allowed no runs and no hits while walking four batters and striking out nine batters over eight innings. With Lucchesi getting optioned to the Mets minor league camp a couple of days ago, Peterson has a better chance of making the Mets roster now either in the rotation or in the bullpen.
- Tylor Megill: Megill, similar to Peterson, has done everything in camp to show he can be the Mets fifth starter. He has pitched 8 1/3 innings over three games allowing one run from six hits and three walks while striking out six batters. We are looking for Megill having another solid outing this afternoon and to make the choice of who should start difficult for Buck Showalter.
- Put me in coach. I can play center field: Last week Mark Canha was getting reps at first place as a possible depth option off the Mets bench. Now he’s getting a turn in center as the Mets explore their options if Nimmo has to miss an extended period of time. Canha played 11 games in center last year including seven starts (71 1/3 innings) with a perfect fielder rating. In 2021 he played 187 2/3 innings in center with the same rating.
Let’s Go Mets!
