Ortiz was arrested earlier Sunday in Boston, while the status of Clase, a three-time All-Star closer who had been on non-disciplinary paid leave since July, remains in question as he is reportedly not yet in custody. According to ESPN’s Jeff Passan, both pitchers face up to 65 years in prison if convicted on all charges, which include fraud, conspiracy, and bribery, per the Eastern District of New York.

The entire 23-page indictment details an alleged plan in which the pitchers agreed to intentionally throw balls so bettors could wager on the outcome of specific micro-bets, such as whether a pitch would be a ball or a strike. Prosecutors state, per Passan, that the scheme involving Clase began as early as May 2023 and later expanded to include Ortiz. Ortiz was paid $5,000 for throwing an intentional ball on June 15, with Clase receiving the same amount for facilitating it. The indictment states they repeated the act on June 27, earning $7,000 each for that pitch.

The federal charges stem from an MLB investigation initiated after betting-integrity monitors flagged unusual activity on pitches thrown by Ortiz in at least two separate games in June of this year. Reports indicated that a high volume of money was placed on specific pitches to be balls or hit-by-pitches, which afterwards resulted in Ortiz throwing pitches well outside the strike zone.

The indictment of a player of Clase’s stature sends a message regarding the growing threat of game manipulation in the era of legalized sports betting. Any finding that players intentionally influenced pitch outcomes, even for prop bets, would constitute a violation of MLB Rule 21 and result in a lifetime ban. The rule explicitly states that, “players may not ask others to place bets on their behalf, knowingly benefit financially from, or knowingly assist with bets placed by others.”

According to the federal indictment (via Pablo Torre of Pablo Torre Finds Out), “With Clase’s knowledge and approval, Bettor-1, Bettor-2, and others used this information to place over a hundred fraudulent Pitch Speed and Ball/HBP bets and parlays on Clase’s pitches.”

In one instance, according to page 13 of the indictment, Clase allegedly attempted to throw a ball for betting purposes, but the batter swung and missed, resulting in a strike instead. Afterward, “Bettor-1” reportedly texted Clase a GIF of a man hanging himself with toilet paper, to which Clase replied with a GIF of a sad puppy. The Guardians ultimately won the game.

In a statement to ESPN, Major League Baseball said that: “MLB contacted federal law enforcement at the outset of its investigation and has fully cooperated throughout the process. We are aware of the indictment and today’s arrest, and our investigation is ongoing.”

Both pitchers now face criminal prosecution and the near certainty of a lifetime ban from baseball, putting their careers on life support.

The post Clase, Ortiz Officially Indicted in Pitch-Rigging Scheme appeared first on Metsmerized.

The Mets, meanwhile, need bullpen help and could pursue several options. According to The Athletic, New York may look to add multiple arms and, “aren’t ruling out a significant late-game addition.” This approach makes sense, as the team currently lacks quality setup men, but additionally, there simply aren’t enough relievers in manager Carlos Mendoza’s bullpen right now.

Emmanuel Clase, RP

Position: RP B/T: R/R
Age: 27 (03/18/1998)

2025 Traditional Stats: 48 G, 41 GF, 24 SV, 47.1 IP, 5-3, 3.23 ERA, 1.225 WHIP, 47 SO, 12 BB
2025 Advanced Stats: 129 ERA+, 23.4% K%, 6.0% BB%, 2.99 xERA, 2.67 FIP, 3.50 xFIP, 0.6 bWAR, 1.1 fWAR

Rundown

The 27-year-old Clase should be a household name by now. Since 2021, he’s been one of the game’s top relievers, saving over 40 games in three-of-four seasons between 2021 and 2024. During that stretch, he posted a 1.62 ERA, a 5.40 strikeout-to-walk rate, and was an American League All-Star three times. In 2022 and 2024, he won the Mariano Rivera AL Reliever of the Year Award.

Of course, Clase’s 2024 campaign was his most legendary. He was a godsend for the Guardians and the face of what was clearly the best bullpen in baseball. That season earned him a third-place finish in Cy Young voting, becoming the first reliever to crack the top three since Francisco Rodríguez in 2008.

It’s not quite his dominant 2024, but he’s been solid once again this year. Over 47 1/3 innings, he owns a 3.23 ERA with 24 saves. His strikeout-to-walk rate has also dipped to 3.92 from last year’s 6.60, as his walk rate has increased by a little.

Clase has never been a strikeout-heavy pitcher; instead, he relies on a hard cutter that, like all cutters, rides up and in on lefties and away from righties. This season, the pitch has looked more vulnerable, with batters hitting .266 against it; though the expected average on it is a more forgiving .249. Still, there’s no doubt it remains one of the best cutters in the game and one of the league’s top pitches.

He signed a five-year, $20 million contract back in 2022 while he was still earning the league minimum. He’ll make $4.5 million this year and $6 million next season, but the deal also includes club options worth $10 million for 2026 and 2027 that appear like locks to be exercised. This is key given that current Mets closer, Edwin Díaz, has an opt-out in his contract, meaning the Mets very well may be on the hunt for a new closer this offseason. The addition of Clase would make losing Díaz in free agency a lot easier.

Cade Smith, RP

Position: RP B/T: R/R
Age: 26 (05/9/1999)

2025 Traditional Stats: 46 G, 5 GF, 3 SV, 44.2 IP, 2-3, 3.02 ERA, 1.187 WHIP, 65 SO, 17 BB
2025 Advanced Stats: 138 ERA+, 34.2% K%, 8.9% BB%, 2.63 xERA, 2.04 FIP, 2.89 xFIP, 1.5 fWAR, 0.3 bWAR

Rundown

Cade Smith wasn’t highly regarded by prospect outlets entering 2024, but his breakout rookie season put him on the radar as a legitimate setup arm alongside the already-perennial All-Star in Clase. In 2024, he posted a brilliant 1.91 ERA while striking out over 36% of batters faced.

Smith has been streaky this season. He posted a 1.32 ERA in April, followed by a rough 5.06 ERA in May. He bounced back with a 1.13 ERA in June, but has struggled again in July, with a 5.23 ERA so far this month.

While Clase relies on inducing ground balls, Smith’s strength is his strikeout ability. Over 44 2/3 innings this season, the 26-year-old has recorded 65 strikeouts and a 34.2% strikeout rate. His 3.02 ERA is slightly higher than in 2024, and his results have still been excellent. Plus, advanced metrics tend to favor pitchers with strikeout-heavy profiles, and Smith is no exception; he’s currently underperforming both of his 2.04 FIP and 2.55 SIERA.

He’s also elite at limiting home runs. Over 75 1/3 innings in 2024, he gave up just one, and through 44 2/3 innings this year, he’s allowed only two. With the league average sitting around 1.1 homers per nine innings, his 0.1 HR/9 in 2024 and 0.4 this season stand out as exceptional.

Smith’s fastball is where he truly stands out. In 2024, it was the most valuable in the league, making him one of just three relievers with a four-seamer ranked in the top 10. His sweeper and splitter are fringe-average, but their similar spin help them play well off the fastball. Still, their limitations have led him to rely on the four-seamer, which he throws about 70% of the time.

Smith is still slated to be under team control for seasons to come. He won’t even be eligible for arbitration until 2027. That kind of club control is a rarity for an available reliever this effective. This would once again be vital to a Mets team that may lose their elite back-end bullpen stopgap at season’s end.

Package

The fact that Cleveland is listening to offers on Clase and Smith doesn’t necessarily mean they’re actively shopping their two star relievers. If the Guardians remain in the wild card hunt by the trade deadline, the two might still be available, but at the price of a king’s ransom. Unless Cleveland goes on a crazy run, trading them isn’t off the table, even if they’re just a game or two out. It’s a common strategy for savvy small-market teams  to retool by both buying and selling.

In any case, Clase and Smith will be extremely expensive. A deal centered around one of the Mets’ top-four prospects (from Jett Williams down to Carson Benge) and one of Ronny Mauricio and Luisangel Acuña could potentially get a deal done, but even that depends on the Guardians’ opinion on the Mets’ best.

Any trade for either Clase or Smith rightfully won’t come cheap. It is extremely rare to see as elite as a reliever as both Clase and Smith are, plus having all the team control they have, be available at a trade deadline.

Recommendation

Trading away a top-four guy for Clase or Smith would be a high-risk move, and that is exactly what it would likely take. New York has finally rebuilt their farm system. Trading away top young talent for relievers whose main appeal is affordability could undermine what might be president of baseball David Stearns’ greatest asset; spending power. The controllability might be a curse in disguise, as it’s extraordinarily valuable for Cleveland but less so for an owner with deeper pockets like owner Steve Cohen.

This trade deadline may not be the right time to spend big, especially on bullpen arms like Clase or Smith. Looking elsewhere for help would definitely be the safer move, though sometimes it’s the daring decisions that carry teams to the finish line.

The post Trade Profile: Emmanuel Clase, Cade Smith appeared first on Metsmerized.

The Mets, who are hosting their first version of fan fest in nearly five years on Saturday, released their star-studded lineup for the day. Amazin’ Day, where fans will be able to hear from and meet current and former Mets players, will have some of the biggest names in the franchise’s history available. Some of those names include Mike Piazza, Francisco Lindor, Juan Soto, Mookie Wilson, Edwin Díaz, Mark Vientos, and Brandon Nimmo. It should be an exciting day in Queens as the club will also be releasing its new road uniforms for the 2025 season.

Brad Penner-Imagn Images

Latest Mets News

Jeff McNeil says he’s “a little surprised” Pete Alonso is still a free agent and hopes his “good buddy” re-signs with the Mets, per Anthony Rieber of Newsday.

The Mets announced that they will be revealing a brand new road jersey at Mets “Amazin’ Day” on Saturday. 

Latest MLB News

Former Phillies general manager Ruben Amaro Jr. will launch a hitting competition called “Sluggball”, per The AP. The competition will focus entirely on situational hitting, with no fielding or running required.

The Los Angeles Dodgers are shopping some of their surplus of players in order to get add their new acquisitions to the 40-man roster, per Bob Nightengale of USA Today. One player possibly on the chopping block is reliever Ryan Brasier, who is owed $4.5 million this season. 

On MLB Network, Jon Heyman of the NY Post went into detail on how the Toronto Blue Jays could be an ideal destination for former Cy Young Award winner Max Scherzer.

Former all-star shortstop Tim Anderson signed a minor league deal with the Los Angeles Angels, per Bob Nightengale of USA Today. 

The Cleveland Guardians signed former Met Paul Sewald to a one-year, $7 million deal with a mutual option for 2026.

The Oakland Athletics hired former World Series MVP and Athletics Hall of Famer Dave Stewart as a Special Assistant to Player Development for the 2025 season.

MLB Network will broadcast the 2025 Caribbean Series in English starting January 31.

Former Seattle Mariners pitching coach Bobby Cuellar passed away at 72 years old. 

Infielder Jon Berti agreed to a deal with the Chicago Cubs on a contract, per Robert Murray of FanSided.

Latest on MMO

David Wright stays on the HOF ballot!

Billy Wagner finally gets the call!

Four Mets prospects land on Baseball America’s top 100 list.

On This Date in Mets History

1975: Ralph Kiner is selected to the National Baseball Hall of Fame in his final year of eligibility.

Born on This Date: Robert Carson (1989), Charlie Greene (1971), Bob Moorhead (1938).

The post Morning Briefing: Mets Set Amazin’ Day Lineup appeared first on Metsmerized.

Position: SP, B/T: R/R
Player Data: Age: 29 (05/31/1995)

2024 Traditional Stats: 2 GS, 12.0 IP, 0.00 ERA, 0.917 WHIP, 2-0, 20 SO, 1 BB
2024 Advanced Stats: 44.4% K%, 2.2% BB%, 2.66 xERA, 0.08 FIP, 0.59 xFIP, 0.8 fWAR

2023 Traditional Stats: 21 GS, 128.0 IP, 3.80 ERA, 1.234 WHIP, 6-6, 107 SO, 34 BB
2023 Advanced Stats: 112 ERA+, 20.1% K%, 6.4% BB%, 4.83 xERA, 3.87 FIP, 3.96 xFIP, 2.1 fWAR

Rundown

Shane Bieber has only represented the Cleveland Guardians in his six-year big league career. He debuted in 2018, pitching to a 4.55 ERA. However, Bieber proved his dominance in his sophomore campaign, posting a 3.28 ERA in 33 starts with 259 strikeouts and threw three complete games with two of those being shutouts. He placed fourth in American League (AL) Cy Young voting and was named to his first All-Star team, where he was also named the All-Star Game MVP in his home ballpark.

Bieber’s best season came in the shortened 2020 campaign, where he became a Triple Crown winner. In 12 starts, he won a league-high eight games, posted a league-best 1.83 ERA across 77 1/3 innings, and struck out a league-high 122 batters. Not only did he earn a Cy Young, but he placed fourth in AL MVP voting after coming in first in the AL in ERA+ (273) and first in all of baseball in FIP (2.07) and strikeouts per nine innings (14.2).

Injuries plagued Bieber’s 2021 season in Cleveland. He made only 16 starts (including Opening Day) and threw 96 2/3 innings, posting a 3.17 ERA. Even though he spent most of the season on the 60-day injured list, he was named an All-Star. He returned to his dominant ways in 2022, eclipsing the 200-inning mark for the first time since 2019, and won a Gold Glove while placing seventh in AL Cy Young voting. However, injuries followed in 2023 and 2024, with Tommy John surgery effectively ending his 2024 campaign after only two solid starts (12 innings, 20 strikeouts, one walk, 10 hits, zero runs allowed).

The right-handed starter relies on five pitches: a four-seam fastball, slider, changeup, knuckle-curve, and cutter. Never a flamethrower, his fastball topped at around 94.3 mph in 2020. However, in 2023, his velocity hit a career-low 89.2 mph. While this is cause for concern, it did tick back up to 91.0 mph in his brief two starts in 2024 before a torn UCL in his throwing arm took him out for the season.

Bieber had been dealing with elbow inflammation as early as the 2023 surgery, missing another significant chunk of the season. While he hit “career-lows” not seen since his rookie year, he still pitched to a 3.80 ERA and struck out 107 batters. Bieber has excelled at limiting walks, never giving up more than 40 in a season (2019). He walked a career-low 8.1% of batters in 2021, still ranking in the 52nd percentile in the league. After that, he’s never ranked lower than the 80th percentile in walk percentage in a season.

Overall, healthy, Bieber is a pitcher who does not walk many while relying on nasty stuff to get swing-and-misses and subsequently several strikeouts. Health is certainly a concern, as he has thrown more than 130 innings in two of his seven big league seasons. However, a healthy Bieber, and one that represents more of his pre-2023 self, is one of the better pitchers in the majors.

Photo by David Richard-USA TODAY Sports

Contract

MLB Trade Rumors predicts Bieber will net a one-year, $12 million contract this offseason. Most importantly, Bieber will not be ready until around the trade deadline in 2025. For any team that signs him, it’s the equivalent of acquiring a player at the trade deadline to help boost their chances of making the playoffs.

While some teams might take a gamble and offer him a two-year deal (potentially including an option), Bieber will likely only seek a one-year deal to try to up his stock for the following offseason in hopes of scoring a lucrative multi-year deal.

Recommendation

The Mets’ rotation is thin in 2025. This is an understatement. Kodai Senga and David Peterson are the only locks, leaving three open spots. After their success in 2024, the Mets are playing to win in 2025. President of baseball operations David Stearns took a gamble with contracts on Sean Manaea and Luis Severino last offseason, reclamation projects who declined the Mets’ qualifying offer. There is no doubt the Mets will want to try and strike gold twice.

While that strategy is trickier with Bieber because of his injury, he would add an extra jolt to a rotation come summer if the Mets are in the thick of a playoff race. If not, the team can then flip him to a contender. It’s a riskier deal than a Manaea or Severino, but it’s another low-risk, high-reward the Mets should consider as long as they can fill out the rotation first.

The post Free Agent Profile: Shane Bieber, SP appeared first on Metsmerized.

Scott Boras had his annual appearance where he fielded questions from reporters on his clients during this free agency period, and the Boras zingers were out in full force. While the super agent made sure to pump up his clients, there were a lot of Mets related reports to come from his rebuttals. One being on Juan Soto, as Boras mentioned that Soto will go through a “thorough process” while mentioning that the Mets have been very aggressive in the Soto market.

Scott pulled out one of his classic one-liners in regards to Pete Alonso‘s free agent market: “We hear a lot about the bare market for power-hitting first basemen. For Pete’s sake, it’s the polar opposite.” Along with Alonso, Boras also commented on Sean Manaea‘s market, which he said is very vast and that the LHP has many suitors.

For more on Boras’ comments, click here!

Brad Penner-Imagn Images

Latest Mets News

David Stearns talked to reporters and addressed many topics, while praising Steve Cohen’s willingness to invest in the club. Click here for more on Stearns’ comments.

Mets president of baseball operations David Stearns also told reporters that he went to Japan to scout pending free agent Roki Sasaki in September. Click here for more on that news. 

The Mets agreed to terms with RHP Rico Garcia on a minor league deal with an invite to MLB camp, per Anthony DiComo of MLB.com. Garcia had 20 saves in the International League for the Nationals organization last season, which led the league.

Baseball America released their top 10 Mets prospects for 2025, headlined by Jett Williams and Brandon Sproat.

The Mets have several minor league free agents, including OF DJ Stewart and 1B/3B Mike Brosseau, per Baseball America.

Latest MLB News

The Seattle Mariners are among teams that have closely evaluated Hye-seong Kim who will be posted from the Kiwoom Heroes of the KBO this off-season, per Jon Morosi of MLB Network. He had an .841 OPS with 30 SB in his age 25 season.

The Los Angeles Angels agreed to a one-year deal with longtime Cubs pitcher Kyle Hendricks, per Bruce Levine of 670 The Score.

Boras told reporters that his client and Astros third baseman Alex Bregman had a bone chip removed from his throwing elbow and should be back swinging in a couple of weeks, per Chandler Rome of The Athletic. The free agent should be good to go for spring training. 

The San Diego Padres agreed to a two-year extension through 2027 with manger Mike Shildt, who made the playoffs in his first year in San Diego.

The Cleveland Guardians and catcher Austin Hedges agreed on a one-year contract to bring him back with the club, per Jeff Passan of ESPN.

Cardinals catcher Willson Contreras will be moving to first base after spending most of his career behind the plate, per Jesse Rogers of ESPN.

The Houston Astros have had internal discussions around the possibility of trading setup man Ryan Pressly, per Chandler Rome of The Athletic. Pressly lost his closer job to Josh Hader, who secured a $95 million contract with Houston last offseason, and will be making $14 million in 2025.

Former MVP Mookie Betts and three-time World Series champ is expected to be moved back to the infield for the 2025 season, per Bob Nightengale of USA Today.

Brewers free agent shortstop Willy Adames is willing to move from his shortstop position if the right offer from a competitive club came around, per Will Sammon and Katie Woo of The Athletic. Other reports have said the Mets could move Adames to third, while other teams have thought of moving him to second base.

Jon Heyman reported that Juan Soto has been reached out to by the Mets, Yankees, Dodgers, Rays, Blue Jays, Red Sox, and Giants, per a Bleacher Report live stream.

Latest on MMO

Scott Boras speaks on free agent market.

Get to know possible Mets free agent target Tim Hill.

Take a look at what grade MMO gave Jose Quintana for his 2024 season.

On This Date in Mets History

2012: The Mets and Jason Bay come to an agreement to terminate the outfielder’s contract a year early. Bay only hit .239 in his three seasons in Queens after signing a four-year, $66 million deal.

Born On This Date: Dick Stuart (1932), Orlando Mercado (1961), Andy Tomberlin (1966), Glendon Rusch (1974), Kris Benson (1974), Willie Collazo (1979).

The post Morning Briefing: Boras Holds Court on Clients appeared first on Metsmerized.

With the matchups finalized, and each series about to begin, who does our staff here at Metsmerized think will faceoff in the World Series?

Mojo H.

NLCS: Dodgers in 7, Teoscar Hernández MVP

I’m gonna predict that we get an all-time classic series between the last two National League teams standing. I think the teams have different strengths and weaknesses; the Dodgers are more top-heavy and have a great bullpen, but the Mets have deeper/more reliable starting pitching. I think it’s a back and-forth punching match that L.A. ultimately squeezes out, getting a timely power surge from Hernández, who’s been great for them all year.

ALCS: Yankees in 5, Aaron Judge MVP

I’m gonna stay simple with this one. I think the better team wins, and the best hitter in baseball carries them.

James V.

NLCS – Dodgers in 6, Will Smith MVP

The Dodgers offense is a lot tougher than the Phillies offense. Although the Mets’ offense should be able to hit around the Dodgers’ starting pitching, the Dodgers’ bullpen is elite. Yes, the Mets were able to beat up an, on paper, strong Phillies bullpen. However, I just do not see that happening two series in a row.

For me, it comes down to not believing the Mets’ bats will be able to keep up with the Dodgers’ offense. Then, you factor in how the bullpen advantage is squarely with the Dodgers.

ALCS – Yankees in 5, Juan Soto MVP

Yankees are the better team. Their march through one of the easiest paths to the World Series in recent memory continues as Cleveland just doesn’t have the fire power, outside the league-best bullpen, to complete the upset.

Mark Vientos. Kyle Ross-Imagn Images

Dave M.

NLCS – Mets in 6, Mark Vientos MVP

The clutch hits keep coming. We saw them in Atlanta, Milwaukee, Philadelphia and at Citi Field, where the Mets are 13-2 in September/October.

ALCS – Yankees in 7, Jazz Chisholm MVP

The Yankees’ biggest regular season weakness was a strength in the American League Division Series. Specifically, in the bullpen, Luke Weaver (three saves) and Clay Holmes combined for 9 1/3 scoreless innings. All aboard for the Subway Series!

Matt M.

NLCS – Mets in 7

The Mets’ pitching staff rides on Grimace and the power of friendship. The Dodgers’ rotation is held together with a tiny sliver of slight, white tape that is one injury from having Enrique Hernández starting. Enough said. Advantage: Mets.

ALCS – Cleveland in 7

If Judge and Soto can’t team up for another postseason triumph, the Guardians’ pitching should be able to navigate the rest of the Yankees lineup without trouble.

Patrick G.

NLCS – Mets in 5, Francisco Lindor MVP

The Mets are 26-12 in their last 38 games. They’ve basically been the best team in baseball since June. Their pitching is in a far better spot than the Dodgers, and they say that’s what wins you championships.

ALCS – Yankees in 6

They’re just the better team with bigger stars. It’ll be Subway Series 2.0.

Mookie Betts. Mandatory Credit: Kevin Jairaj-USA TODAY Sports

Allison W.

NLCS – Dodgers in 7, Mookie Betts MVP

Betts finally snaps his postseason woes of the last couple of years and has a monster series against the Mets. And so does Ohtani, Freeman and every other big name star the Dodgers have.

While the Mets might have the upper hand when it comes to pitching (the Dodgers have lost arms left and right this year), it’s hard to put their bats past the Mets. They powered past an equally powerful San Diego lineup and pitching rotation, and can do the same with New York. It won’t be easy, as it’ll take all seven games, but the Dodgers are riding their own hot streak right now too.

ALCS – Guardians in 5, Steven Kwan MVP

If Judge and Soto can’t keep things going, the Yankees can’t get things going. It’s the story of the Yankees in 2024. That said, the Guardians will strike when the Yanks get cold, and All-Star Kwan will send them to the World Series for the first time since 2016.

Matt L. 

NLCS – Mets in 6, Mark Vientos MVP

The Dodgers’ star power outweighs the Mets, but you can’t count out the edge the Mets’ starting pitching presents. Pitching paired with late-inning magic has shown to be enough to compete with the best of the best. Expect Vientos, Lindor and Alonso to continue to produce enough offense to propel this team to the World Series.

ALCS – Guardians in 7, Josh Naylor MVP

Expect Cleveland’s bullpen and defense to play a large role in their way to the World Series, just as they’ve done all season leading up to date. The Yankees have two of the top five hitters across baseball, but is it enough to bring them to the promised land?

Jack R.

NLCS – Dodgers in 7, Freddie Freeman MVP

Despite everything this year, I have a tough time believing the Mets win this series. While many will expect that Ohtani or Betts could be what does the Mets in, there’s one man that Mets seem to be forgetting about: Freddie Freeman.

For much of the 2010s, he tormented the Mets and will get another chance to this upcoming week. Ultimately, the Mets’ lack of legitimate left handed pitching options will do them in. Freeman ends the magic, and is once again the ultimate villain in Mets nation.

ALCS – Yankees in 5

The Yankees are good. Very good. They have pitching, relief help, star power in the lineup, offensive depth, and a wealth of playoff experience. They match up well with Cleveland, and should be able to end this quickly. Look for Judge and Soto to put up better numbers than they did last series, which will be the main reason this series ends quickly.

Brandon Nimmo. Bill Streicher-Imagn Images

Mathias AK.

NLCS – Mets in 6, Brandon Nimmo MVP

The last time the Mets and Dodgers faced each other, the Mets had hit rock bottom. Now, they’ve proven they can hang with anyone. The Dodgers’ offense is a juggernaut, and their bullpen was fantastic against San Diego, but their rotation is very suspect. At some point, the L.A. bullpen is going to crack, and the Mets have terrorized opposing relievers this postseason. Judging by how emotional Brandon Nimmo was after the team clinched the NLDS, I think he’s poised to have a monster series.

ALCS – Yankees in 6, Giancarlo Stanton MVP

The Yankees easily have the upper hand when it comes to starting pitching, and now that Giancarlo Stanton is hot, their offense is going to be tough to beat. Cleveland’s bullpen and pesky offense can help snag a game or two, but it’s tough to envision them beating the Yankees.

Chris B. 

NLCS – Mets in 6, Pete Alonso MVP

The Mets have proven themselves over the last 90 games and in the playoffs;  they’re legit. The Dodgers will be challenging, especially the lineup spearheaded by Mookie Betts, Shohei Ohtani, and Freddie Freeman. But their starters are weak, and their bullpen took a massive hit with Alex Vesia going down.

Pete Alonso will lead the Mets and have a strong series, as the first baseman has a .312 batting average and seven homers in 18 games at Dodger Stadium.

ALCS – Yankees in 5, Giancarlo Stanton MVP

Have the Yankees ever had an easier path to the World Series? No disrespect to the American League Central, but two teams barely squeaked in and the Guardians won 92 games while getting 13 cracks at the worst team of all time. The Guardians strength is their bullpen, but how long can that last? Numerous arms have 75-plus regular season innings and Emmanuel Clase already broke down once in ALDS.

The Yankees eventually will get something out of Aaron Judge, but Giancarlo Stanton will power the offense as he’s been one of the best postseason hitter in the last six seasons.

The post MMO Roundtable: NLCS and ALCS Predictions appeared first on Metsmerized.

Your New York Mets are moving on to the NLCS!

Last night, with the chance to get the series clinching win in Game 4, the Mets were finally able to christen the home team locker room of Citi Field with its first champagne bath. In a miracle season, which saw them start 11 games under .500, the Mets will now face the winner of the Padres and Dodgers series for a spot in the 2024 World Series.

While there have been many gimmicks and streaks from both players and outside entities this season, the one constant has been the Mets’ MVP, Francisco Lindor. In this Game 4 battle against the Philadelphia Phillies, Jose Quintana was able to hold the Phillies to only one run in five solid innings of work, however, the Mets’ offense was not holding up their end of the bargain. Having left the bases loaded in the first and second inning, the Mets’ bats were in danger of doing so again in the sixth, but the backbone of the team would not let it happen. Lindor did it again; the star shortstop smoked a 2-1 fastball over the right-center field wall, and the rest is history. 

The Mets will have a very well-deserved three day break as they await the winner ofGame 5 between the Dodgers and Padres on Friday.

Which team do you think would be a better matchup for the Mets? Sound off in the comments!

Wendell Cruz-Imagn Images

Latest Mets News

Latin pop star and Mets shortstop Jose Iglesias talked to the Today Show about how the remix of his song “OMG” with Pitbull and Silvestre Dangond came about. The remix will be released on Friday and a music video is planned to come out during the offseason.

Jeff McNeil will play in the Arizona Fall League on Friday and Saturday as Mets manager Carlos Mendoza wants to see him play back-to-back games of nine innings, per Tim Healey of Newsday. Jeff McNeil anticipates being on the NLCS roster, which will be released prior to the series’ start on Sunday, per Anthony DiComo of MLB.com.

Daniel Murphy threw the first pitch to Bartolo Colon prior to Game 4 of the NLDS on Wednesday night. 

Latest MLB News

Game 3 of the ALDS went to the Detroit Tigers as they beat the Cleveland Guardians, 3-0. The Tigers, who went with a bullpen game, completely shut down Cleveland’s bats and will have a chance to move on to the ALCS on their home field on Thursday night. 

The Los Angeles Dodgers bludgeoned the Padres last night 8-0 and forced a winner-take-all Game 5 in Los Angeles on Friday. The winner of the series will host the Mets on Sunday to kick off the NLCS.

Giancarlo Stanton’s eight-inning moonshot blast ended up being the game-winning blow for the Yankees, as they beat the Royals 3-2. Kansas City’s season is on the line Thursday night at Kauffman Stadium.

The MLBPA came to a non-exclusive licensing deal with Fanatics, making it the first licensed sportsbook of the MLBPA, per Mike Mazzeo of Sports Business Journal. 

Houston Astros utility man Mauricio Dubón is slated to undergo surgery on his ulnar collateral ligament in his left thumb this week, per Chandler Rome of The Athletic. Dubón played the last month of the season with this tear; the expected recovery time is 6-8 weeks, so he should be good to go for spring training. 

The roof of Tropicana Field was ripped off on Wednesday night by Hurricane Milton. The stadium was being used as a shelter for first responders. Prayers go out to all who are affected by Hurricane Milton.

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A Citi Field celebration 15 years in the making!

Lindsanity will not stop!

Jeff McNeil is nearing a return just in time for the NLCS.

On This Date in Mets History

2015: While trying to turn a double play in the seventh inning of Game 2 of the NLDS against the Dodgers, Rubén Tejada gets taken out by Chase Utley and breaks his leg. Utley would get a warm welcome from the Citi Field crowd during Game 3 of the series.

1973: The Mets beat the Cincinnati Reds to win the second National League pennant in franchise history.

1961: The New York Mets select Giants catcher Hobie Landrith with their first selection in the 1961 MLB expansion draft. Players such as Gil Hodges, Roger Craig, and Al Jackson were selected during the draft. 

Born On This Date: Jeurys Familia (1989), Fernando Martínez (1988), Elvin Ramírez (1987), Ramón Martínez (1972), Grover Powell (1940).

The post Morning Briefing: Mets Are Headed to the NLCS appeared first on Metsmerized.

The Mets came into Game 2 of their Wild Card Series with Sean Manaea on the mound and looking to win their first postseason series since 2015. Things looked promising early on as the Amazin’s bats seemed to be alive, scoring a run in the first inning and two in the second inning to take a 3-1 lead. However, the Brewers bullpen would turn the lights out on the Mets offense, shutting them down for the rest of the game. While the Mets still held a 3-2 lead going into the eighth inning, that would not last long, as Phil Maton gave up two home runs and three runs to hand the Brewers a 5-3 lead. Devin Williams would close out the game for Milwaukee and force a “winner takes all” Game 3.

Despite the Brewers being 0-26 in their franchise’s history when trailing a game going into the eighth inning in the postseason, they somehow found a way to win. Now, the Mets turn to veteran southpaw Jose Quintana to keep their season alive and put them in an NLDS matchup against NL East foe Philadelphia Phillies. Milwaukee will throw Tobias Myers, but it will be an al-hands-on-deck approach for the both clubs.

Photo By: Benny Sieu/Imagn Images

Latest Mets News 

Mets trade deadline acquisition RHP Paul Blackburn is done for the season as he still is experiencing issues after his spinal fluid leak a couple of weeks ago, per Tim Healey of Newsday. 

The Mets will be hosting a Game 3 watch party at Citi Field on Thursday night. Tickets will be $10 and all net proceeds will benefit The Amazin’ Mets Foundation. There will also be free parking and $5 concession pricing.

Latest MLB News

The Detroit Tigers gave Astros closer Ryan Pressly his first career postseason blown save as they take Game 2 by a score of 5-2 en route to a series sweep. They will move on to face the Cleveland Guardians in the ALDS. 

The Kansas City Royals shut down the Orioles bats yet again, winning the second game of their Wild Card Series 2-1 and sweeping the Orioles. The Royals will face the New York Yankees in the ALDS.

The Atlanta Braves comeback fell just short as the San Diego Padres held on to a 5-4 lead and swept the Braves 2-0. San Diego will face their division rival Los Angeles Dodgers in the NLDS.

The entire Miami Marlins coaching staff was informed that they will not be returning for the 2025 season, per Craig Mish of the Miami Herald. This news comes after former manager of the year Skip Schumaker and the Marlins mutually agreed to part ways; select individuals on the staff were informed their is interest in them being brought back, but they can pursue other opportunities.

The Los Angeles Dodgers announced that Fernando Valenzuela has stepped away from the Dodgers broadcast booth for the remainder of the year to focus on his health. 

Diamond Sports Group, who runs Bally Sports, dropped their contract with the Tampa Bay Rays and Detroit Tigers on Wednesday, per Evan Drellich of The Athletic. Four teams’ contracts with Diamond expired after the 2024 season and five other teams couldn’t be dropped but seemingly need to renegotiate their contracts. 

San Diego Padres starting pitcher Joe Musgrove left last night’s game in the fourth inning with right elbow tightness.

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Paul Blackburn’s 2024 season has come to an end. 

The Mets’ DH’s came up clutch in Game 1.

The Mets’ bullpen was lights out in their first postseason game. 

On This Date in Mets History

2004: John Franco makes his final appearance as a Met, ending his Mets career as the franchise leader in pitching appearances (695), saves (276), and games finished (484). 

2004: Todd Zeile launches a three-run home run in the final at-bat of his career. Zeile became the fourth Met to homer in his final at-bat, joining Mike Cubbage, Chris Jelic and Chico Walker. 

1999: The Mets beat the Pittsburgh Pirates on a walk-off wild pitch and force a game 163 against the Cincinnati Reds. 

1981: On Old Timers Day, 50-year-old Willie Mays makes a play in center field to take away a hit from Ron Swoboda.

Born on this Date: Jack Lamabe (1936).

The post Morning Briefing: Mets Face Elimination in Game 3 appeared first on Metsmerized.

Happy Independence Day to the best nation in the world!

On Wednesday, MLB released the starting lineups for the AL and NL as they prepare for the 2024 All-Star Game, which will be held on July 16 at Globe Life Field in Arlington, Texas. While no Mets made the starting lineup, plenty of first time All-Stars got the starting nod and familiar faces continue to cement their Midsummer Classic legacies. Here are the starting lineups for each league:

NL: C: William Contreras, MIL, 1B: Bryce Harper, PHI, 2B: Ketel Marte, ARI, SS: Trea Turner, PHI, 3B: Alec Bohm, PHI, OF: Christian Yelich, MIL OF: Jurickson Profar, SDP OF: Fernando Tatis Jr., SDP, DH: Shohei Ohtani, LAD.

AL: C: Adley Rutschman, BAL, 1B: Vladimir Guerrero Jr., TOR, 2B: José Altuve, HOU, SS: Gunnar Henderson, BAL, 3B: José Ramírez, CLE, OF: Aaron Judge, NYY, OF: Juan Soto, NYY, OF: Steven Kwan, CLE, DH: Yordan Álvarez, HOU.

Along with announcing the starters for the 96th annual All-Star Game, MLB also released the uniforms that will be worn on the field.

Mark J. Rebilas-USA TODAY Sports

On Wednesday evening, the Mets found themselves on the losing side for the first time in their series against the Nationals this week. After taking two extra-inning games to start the four-game set, the Mets were not able to outscore their bullpen woes, blowing a 5-1 lead and falling by a score of 7-5 to the Nationals. For a full game breakdown, click here.

The Mets will try to leave Washington with a series win as they finish up the series. Jose Quintana (4.57 ERA, 3-5) will face Jake Irvin (3.03 ERA, 6-6) of the Nationals at 11:05 a.m. ET.

Latest Mets News

Kodai Senga looked sharp in his first rehab start for the High-A Brooklyn Cyclones: 2.2 IP, 0 H, 0 R, 0 BB, 6 K, 35 pitches/25 strikes. To learn more about Senga’s first rehab start, click here.

The Mets called up Christian Scott from Triple-A Syracuse and DFA’d RHP Matt Festa prior to Wednesday’s game. Scott started on Wednesday, going 5.2 IP 6 H, 4 ER, 2 BB, and 2 SO while leaving the game with a 5-4 lead.

Veteran outfielder Trayce Thompson was released from his contract with the Triple-A Syracuse Mets, per Mike Mayer of Metsmerized Online.

Latest MLB News

Minnesota Twins slugger Royce Lewis was placed on the 10-day IL with a right adductor strain.

The Milwaukee Brewers acquired starting pitcher Aaron Civale in a trade with the Tampa Bay Rays, sending INF prospect Gregory Barrios to Tampa Bay in return.

Toronto Blue Jays closer Jordan Romano underwent arthroscopic surgery on his right elbow to repair an impingement and will be down from throwing for at least six weeks, per Keegan Matheson of MLB.com. It is still unknown if he will be able to return this season.

The Minnesota Twins called up their top infield prospect, and No. 13 prospect in all of baseball, Brooks Lee, per Declan Goff of SKOR North. Lee started at third base and went 2-for-4 with an RBI in his MLB debut.

Jon Heyman reported on a Bleacher Report livestream that the Seattle Mariners and Los Angeles Dodgers are the “most likely” landing spots for Chicago White Sox star outfielder Luis Robert Jr.

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Jose Iglesias and the Mets offense have propelled them to key late-inning wins.

Sean Manaea helped lighten the heavily taxed bullpen’s load with his impressive outing on Tuesday.

Kodai Senga shined in his first rehab start.

On This Date in Mets History

2006: The Mets score three runs in the bottom of the 8th to take a 7-6 lead over the Pirates and Billy Wagner locks it down in the 9th, recording his 300th career save. 

1985: In a 19-inning marathon, the Mets outlast the Braves, winning by a score of 16-13 behind a Keith Hernandez cycle.

1972: Tom Seaver comes within two outs of a no-hitter against the Padres, before a base hit by Leron Lee broke up the no-hit bid.

Birthdays: Jared Hughes (39), José Oquendo (61)

The post Morning Briefing: MLB All-Star Game Starters Announced appeared first on Metsmerized.

Wow… We’ve seen plenty of bizarre days in Flushing and Wednesday made a case to be high on that list.

The day started with a gut punch as the Mets lost their closer, Edwin Díaz, to the IL with a right shoulder impingement. But, that would only be the beginning.

Early in the Mets’ 10-3 loss to the Dodgers, Pete Alonso left the game after getting hit by a pitch on the hand. X-rays were negative, but the Mets are waiting on the results of the CT scan.

Jorge López was the star of the Mets’ meltdown on Wednesday. After Adam Ottavino gave the Dodgers a two-run lead in the eight inning, Jorge López came in to clean up the mess with two runners on base. Obviously, it did not go his way, allowing four more runs to come in. But that was just the prequel; in his at-bat against Freddie Freeman, the third base umpire did not give López the call on a Freeman check swing attempt. López barked at the ump, got ejected, then threw his glove over the net and into the crowd as he walked off the field.

Despite a team meeting before talking to the media, López did not hold back, going in on his team. While there was controversy about what he really said about being the “worst teammate” and/or on the “worst team”, López said he did not regret throwing his glove into the stands. 

It was announced shortly after that the Mets are planning on DFA’ing López after his tirade, per Joel Sherman of the New York Post. To get a more in-depth breakdown of Wednesday’s circus, click here.

Screenshot via SNY Twitter

Latest Mets News

The Mets will be calling up Danny Young to replace López for now, Will Sammon of The Athletic reported late Wednesday night.

Mets closer Edwin Díaz was placed on the 15-day IL with a right shoulder impingement. They recalled LHP Josh Walker from Triple-A Syracuse to take the roster spot. Click here to learn more about the injury.

The Mets held a players-only team meeting after yesterday’s loss, which was initiated by Francisco Lindor, according to Brandon Nimmo.

Steve Cohen’s plan to build a casino outside of Citi Field has hit a snag as it is meeting opposition from a state senator. Click here for more information.

Drew Smith made his first rehab start for Triple-A Syracuse on Wednesday: 1 IP, 4 H, 3 ER, 0 BB, 1 K.

Blade Tidwell made his second start for Triple-A Syracuse: 6 IP, 4 H, 0 R, 4 BB, 2 K, 85 pitches/47 pitches.

Latest MLB News

Tampa Bay Rays top prospect Junior Caminero has a Grade 2 left quad strain and is likely to miss 4-6 weeks, per Marc Topkin of the Tampa Bay Times.

The Boston Red Sox placed OF Tyler O’Neill on the 10-day injured list, retroactive to May 26, with right knee inflammation.

The Atlanta Braves’ No. 5 prospect in their system, Owen Murphy, is undergoing Tommy John Surgery, per Jonathan Mayo of MLB.com.

Former Cleveland Guardians outfielder Ramón Laureano signed a minor league deal with the Atlanta Braves.

Yu Darvish left Wednesday’s game with left hamstring tightness, per Kevin Acee of the San Diego Union-Tribune.

The Toronto Blue Jays will be unveiling their City Connect jerseys Thursday.

Former Angels infielder David Fletcher made his first start as a pitcher with the Gwinnett Stripers on Wednesday, putting up a line of 5 IP, 3 H, 2 ER, 1 BB, 6 K. He struck out Orioles top prospect Jackson Holliday in the outing.

The Detroit Tigers placed OF Kerry Carpenter on the 10-day injured list, retroactive to May 27, with lumbar spine inflammation.

Spencer Schwellenbach, the Braves number 3 prospect, made his big league debut yesterday and gave up three runs on five hits in five innings.

Toronto Blue Jays RHP Alek Manoah was removed from Wednesday night’s game with right elbow discomfort.

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The Mets suffer another painful loss.

Edwin Díaz hits the injured list.

Jorge López explodes and gets DFA’d.

On This Date in Mets History

2013: The Mets sweep the Yankees for the first time in Subway Series history. Dillon Gee threw 7 1/3 innings of one-run ball in a 3-1 win in the final game. 

Birthdays: Zack Wheeler (34), Fernando Salas (39)

The post Morning Briefing: A Disastrous Day in Flushing appeared first on Metsmerized.