The upcoming Aug. 1 trade deadline is taking a different turn for the Mets than they had initially anticipated. Owner Steve Cohen has left open the possibility of selling if the team continues to struggle. When asked about the potential of waiving his no-trade clause, Max Scherzer stated that he would only comment once Cohen expresses his intentions of parting with veteran players. In Thursday’s 3-2 loss to the Brewers, Scherzer allowed two runs in six innings and made it clear that until Cohen makes a decision, discussing contract details is pointless. Scherzer expressed his commitment to winning and his belief that the team will ultimately find success. Justin Verlander, the Mets’ other high-priced co-ace, also refrained from commenting on waiving his full no-trade clause. However, he seemed optimistic about remaining with the team and working towards redirecting the course of the 2023 season. Verlander mentioned that he sees glimpses of the team’s potential and believes they have what it takes to be a strong playoff contender. However, he acknowledged the need for the team to prove themselves and make it happen.
In other news, Jose Quintana is set to make another rehab start with Triple-A Syracuse on Friday. Manager Buck Showalter stated that depending on weather conditions, the location of the start may change. Showalter also mentioned that Quintana may need one more rehab outing before making his season debut for the Mets. It is possible that his debut may occur before the All-Star break, but certain factors need to be considered. Showalter emphasized the importance of monitoring Quintana’s performance and ensuring that he is fully prepared before adding him to the major league rotation.
The Mets have struggled early in games, being outscored 59-23 in the first innings of games this season. Pitching coach Jeremy Hefner believes that the high walk count in the first innings has contributed to the team’s 6.08 ERA, which ranks fifth-worst in the majors. Hefner pointed out that Kodai Senga, who allowed two runs in the first inning of Wednesday’s game, has walked 14 batters in the first inning over his 15 starts. However, Hefner clarified that the issue extends beyond Senga, with Carlos Carrasco, Justin Verlander, Max Scherzer, and Tylor Megill all struggling in the first inning. In order to improve, Hefner emphasized the need for better pitch execution and adopting an aggressive mindset from the start.
As for the offense, which has struggled to score runs in the first inning and ranks last in the majors in this category, Showalter expressed his frustration and confessed to not having a definitive answer for the problem. None of the Mets players were voted in as All-Star starters in the latest results, with Atlanta’s Orlando Arcia beating out Francisco Lindor at shortstop. Daniel Vogelbach has shown a selective approach at the plate, leading to a high pitches per plate appearance average. However, Showalter also wants Vogelbach to remain aggressive early in counts and capitalize on hittable pitches.
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