Morning Briefing: Mets Kick Off Second Half On Nine-Game Road Trip

Good morning Mets fans! With Wednesday being the day after the All-Star Game, all was quiet, as players and coaches enjoyed their remaining time off before the second half begins on Friday.

Today marks the final day of the break before the Mets head down to Miami to take on the Marlins for a three-game set starting on Friday. This series not only kicks off the second half for the amazins’, but a nine-game road trip, as well.

Jason Vargas (3–4, 3.77 ERA, 63 SO) gets the nod in game one, as he looks to increase his trade value with the deadline approaching. Unfortunately, the Marlins have not yet announced their pitching probables for the series.

The game starts at 7:10 p.m. E.T. and can be seen on SNY.

Now let’s take a look at what else went on around the league in the wake of the All-Star Game yesterday!

Latest Mets News

Mets and Red Sox have begun trade talks involving Zack Wheeler, says Joel Sherman of The NY Post.

There are several teams interested in acquiring Noah Syndergaard including the Houston Astros, Milwaukee Brewers, San Diego Padres, per Jon Morosi of MLB.com.

Tim Healey of Newsday breaks down the Mets options with the trade deadline approaching.

Mike Puma of The NY Post gives out first half grades to Mets players, Mickey Callaway, and Brodie Van Wagenen and they are pretty much what’d you expect (poor).

MiLB scout John Calvagno takes a look at Mets 17-year-old international catching prospect Francisco Alvarez.

Latest MLB News

Thomas Harrigan of MLB.com highlights nine All-Star pitchers, who could be dealt at the trade deadline later this month.

According to Bob Nightengale of USA TODAY Sports, players around the league are not happy with the current economic situation and are potentially willing to strike over the cause.

As Alex Speier of The Boston Globe noted, the Boston Red Sox released pitcher Tyler Thornburg. The right-hander underwent surgery back in 2017 to repair the infamous thoracic outlet syndrome in his shoulder, identical to former Met ace Matt Harvey.

Last night’s Atlantic League All-Star Game was the first professional baseball game, where an automated electronic strike zone system was used.

The Atlantic League may also start experimenting with stealing first base, writes Chris Cwik of Yahoo Sports.

Latest NL East News

The Miami Marlins have reportedly signed their first-round pick JJ Bleday, per Alex Mena of The Miami Herald.

Phillies catcher J.T. Realmuto says he would not only be willing to sign an extension with his club, but to finish out his career in Philly, as well.