While competing for a spot in the Mets’ opening day starting rotation, pitcher Griffin Canning shined during the team’s impressive 8-0 spring training victory over the Cardinals on Monday.
Photo by Ed Delany of Metsmerized
Across 55 pitches, Canning allowed only one hit, while striking out five, tossing 3 2/3 scoreless innings in his second appearance this spring.
“I’m just trying to be myself,” Canning told SNY.
The righty also spoke about the Mets pitching tech and how it’s helped his development. “It’s a choose your own adventure,” said Canning. “You can get as much info as you want to…. The grip stuff has probably been the most beneficial.” He also added that the pitch technology has helped his cutter the most.
On Monday, Canning tossed three cutters, averaging 88 mph. He also threw 12 sliders, averaging 88 mph, while he tossed two sweepers, averaging 85 mph.
Over five 1/3 innings this spring, Canning has not allowed a run, while giving up three hits, striking out seven batters and walking one.
Throughout his first two spring outings, Canning has compiled a compelling case to sneak into the Mets’ Opening Day starting rotation. The Mets signed the pitcher to a one-year $4.25 million contract this offseason after he threw 171 2/3 innings for the Angels last season, logging a 5.49 ERA. While the odds were stacked against Canning to earn a spot in the teams starting rotation once they signed him in December, with Paul Blackburn‘s spring struggles along with Frankie Montas and Sean Manaea set to open the season on the injured list, there is a strong chance Canning earns a spot in the Opening Day Mets starting rotation.
If he continues to pitch well in spring training, Canning may not just make the roster, but play a crucial role in the Mets’ start to the season.
