Carlos Carrasco Bounces Back Against Cubs

Entering Thursday’s game against the Chicago Cubs, Mets’ starting pitcher Carlos Carrasco had allowed an astounding 18 earned runs in 18 2/3 innings pitched between his four starts. That being said, the 2023 season was not looking good for Carrasco, as his 8.68 ERA and time on the injured list were the subject of much criticism from Mets fans. However, he was able to flip the script of his poor 2023 season as he searched for his first victory of the year on Thursday.

After retiring Cubs’ infielder Nico Hoerner on a groundout, Carrasco fell into his usual first-inning woes when he allowed a solo home run to infielder Dansby Swanson. This game-tying long ball to center field traveled 389 feet with a staggering exit velocity of 103.9 mph. Unlike his previous starts, Carrasco was able to bounce back by escaping this inning without any further damage when he retired outfielder Mike Tauchman on a groundout.

Carrasco followed up his shaky first inning by retiring the next three batters in succession. He collected his first strikeout of the game against first baseman Matt Mervis.

In the next frame, the Mets’ offense was able to pour on three runs to provide Carrasco with run support. Consequently, Carrasco allowed a single and a walk after collecting two outs in the bottom of the third inning. Despite the predicament of the bases being loaded, Carrasco demonstrated great poise as he retired Mike Tauchman on a groundout to end the inning.

The next three innings were smooth sailing for Carrasco. He was able to strike out one batter in each frame, which increased his total to four for the game.

Carrasco’s performance was rewarded by the Mets’ offense with abundant run support. He entered the bottom of the seventh inning defending a six-run lead, and he was able to draw two quick outs on groundouts from Matt Mervis and Patrick Wisdom. While he was close to completing the inning, he allowed a single to catcher Yan Gomes, which prompted Mets’ manager Buck Showalter to pull the plug on Carrasco after a valiant effort.

Mets’ relief pitcher Adam Ottavino was able to strand the runner, which meant that Carrasco ended the night with 6 2/3 innings pitched, one earned run, five hits, two walks, and four strikeouts. This was certainly his best start of the season and a step in the right direction for his upcoming starts.

One of the keys to Carrasco’s success on Thursday night was his curveball. He came into the game only throwing it about 10% of the time, but featured it 22% of the time against the Cubs. He produced four whiffs with the curve and got another five called strikes. For the season, opponents are hitting only .143 with zero extra-base hits against Carrasco’s curveball.

After the game, Carrasco attributed his stellar performance to his ability to find his command. In his interview with Anthony DiComo of MLB.com, he mentioned the role of rookie catcher Francisco Álvarez in helping to establish that command: “He’s been calling a great game. Between innings, we talk a lot.” This compatibility between Carrasco and Álvarez can provide benefit for both of them as they try to establish their worth on this roster.