Spring Debut Success: Senga Takes the Mound
The New York Mets and Miami Marlins locked horns in a 1-1 tie on Monday night at Clover Park, continuing their Grapefruit League action. One of the most anticipated moments of the night was the spring debut of Kodai Senga, the right-hander who has been easing into spring training. Initially slated for just one inning, Senga’s efficient pitching extended his outing to a second inning. He needed only 15 pitches to cruise through the first, allowing a two-out single but nothing more. Senga’s second inning was just as impressive, allowing another two-out single while striking out two batters. Topping out at 96 mph and throwing 31 pitches (20 for strikes), Senga’s performance was a resounding success, further bolstered by a simulated up-down in live batting practice in the bullpen. This outing bodes well for Senga as he builds up his stamina and confidence for the regular season.
Peterson’s Sharp Performance
David Peterson, a vital part of the Mets’ rotation, also made his first appearance of the spring and did not disappoint. The southpaw displayed his sharpness and control as he navigated through the Marlins’ lineup with ease. Peterson allowed just one hit while striking out five batters over three scoreless innings. His command and economy of pitches (39 in total) underscored his readiness to build on the success of his previous season. Peterson’s performance was particularly encouraging for the Mets, who need him to be a reliable and consistent starter.
Butto Struggles with Soft Contact
Following Peterson, Jose Butto faced some challenges. The right-hander was hurt by soft contact, allowing a pair of infield hits before Griffin Conine lofted an RBI single into shallow left, scoring the game’s first run. Butto’s troubles continued as he loaded the bases with a two-out walk, leading to the end of his outing after 24 pitches. While Butto’s outing was not as smooth as his predecessors, it provided valuable insights into areas he needs to improve, particularly in handling soft contact and maintaining control in high-pressure situations.
Kranick Continues Impressive Spring
Max Kranick, a right-hander with a strong connection to the Mets as a fan, continued his impressive start to the spring. Kranick has struck out six batters and not allowed a run over his three appearances. In his latest outing, he put together another 1.1 strong innings of work, further solidifying his position as a promising young pitcher. Carlos Mendoza, the Mets’ pitching coach, praised Kranick’s aggressive approach, noting his ability to throw hard and attack the zone. Kranick’s performance is a testament to his dedication and the potential he brings to the Mets’ bullpen or rotation.
Zuber’s Command and New Changeup
Tyler Zuber, known for his wicked new changeup, made a brief appearance in the ninth inning. Despite some command issues, which were also evident in his minor league performance last season, Zuber managed to punch out one of the two batters he faced. This marks his third consecutive scoreless appearance in spring training, demonstrating his ability to produce results even when struggling with command. Zuber’s development, particularly his new pitch, could be a significant asset for the Mets as they look to bolster their bullpen.
Offense Struggles Against Strong Pitching
The Mets’ offense, featuring stars like Francisco Lindor, Juan Soto, Pete Alonso, and Mark Vientos, was held in check by the Marlins’ pitching. The team managed just one run on two hits, with the top four hitters going a combined 0-for-10 on the night. The Mets were hitless for the first 4.2 innings before infielder Donovan Walton broke the seal with a two-out two-strike single in the fifth. The lone run came courtesy of a three-base error that put Jose Azocar on third, followed by a Simon Juan sacrifice fly. While the offense struggled, the outing provided valuable at-bats and opportunities for the Mets to assess and refine their batting approach.
Game MVP: David Peterson
David Peterson emerged as the clear standout of the night, delivering a sharp and efficient performance. The Mets are counting on Peterson to carry over his success from last season, and his spring debut was a promising start. His ability to maintain control, strike out batters, and limit hits bodes well for his role in the upcoming season.
Upcoming Schedule
The Mets continue their spring training schedule with a game against the St. Louis Cardinals on Tuesday at 1:10 p.m. in Jupiter. Tylor Megill will make his first start of the spring, providing another opportunity for the Mets to evaluate their pitching depth. The game can be seen on ESPN, offering fans a chance to catch their favorite players in action. As the spring progresses, these outings will be crucial for the Mets in preparing for the regular season and assessing their roster.
