Sean Manaea

Age: 30 (2/1/1992)
B/T: R/L

2022 Traditional Stats: 28 GS, 8-9 W-L, 158.0 IP, 4.96 ERA, 1.297 WHIP, 156 SO, 50 BB
2022 Advanced Stats: 75 ERA+, 4.53 FIP, 23.2 SO%, 7.5 BB%, -0.9 bWAR

Rundown

Had it not been for a poor 2022 season, Sean Manaea might have been considered one of the standout free-agent targets of this class. Unfortunately for him, this poor season has caused him to blend in with the rest of the pitchers below the elites such as Jacob deGrom and Carlos Rodón. Despite this, Manaea’s track record is good enough to warrant interest from plenty of MLB teams this offseason.

Manaea was drafted with the 34th pick in the 2013 MLB Draft by the Kansas City Royals after great performances in the Cape Cod Baseball League and at his alma mater, Indiana State. After a productive yet injury-plagued stint in the Royals’ farm system, Manaea was sent as part of a trade for Ben Zobrist to the Oakland Athletics. He continued to rise through the minor league ranks until he was promoted to the Major League team at the age of 24.

In his rookie season in 2016, Manaea proved to be a rare bright spot on a 69-93 Oakland team, putting up a 3.86 ERA in 144 2/3 innings pitched. He remained a consistent presence in the Oakland rotation for five more years, displaying pitching ability and durability that, especially for a left-handed pitcher, would be welcome in any team’s rotation. Through the 2021 season, Manaea had put up a 3.86 ERA in 727 innings pitched for his career in Oakland.

But with the Oakland A’s looking to tear the team down and rebuild, Manaea became expendable. It was clear that he was likely to be traded prior to the 2022 season. His teammate Chris Bassitt had already been traded to the Mets. Then, just before Opening Day, Manaea was traded to the San Diego Padres in exchange for prospects. He was set to join arguably the league’s deepest and best rotation and show his worth on a team expecting to make a deep playoff run.

Manaea’s 2022 season was disappointing, however. Although he started almost every game he appeared in, this season marked the first time since his rookie year he appeared in any game as a reliever. He was still able to pitch 158.0 innings. but he put up a staggering 4.96 ERA which looks like an outlier when compared to his other stats across full seasons. Manaea struggled even more in the postseason. Though he only threw 1 1/3 innings, he surrendered five earned runs in an NLCS loss to the Philadelphia Phillies.

Contract

Sean Manaea is going to be 31 at the start of the 2023 season. Whether his 2022 season was a product of aging or just a fluke will have to be determined by teams this offseason. Spotrac.com estimates Manaea will warrant a four-year contract for $11.9 million a year, or a total of $47.9 million across that time period. This contract would make Manaea a top-40 pitcher in terms of salary, right between Seattle’s Luis Castillo and San Francisco’s Anthony DeSclafani.

If he had become a free agent after the 2021 season, Manaea would definitely be a more attractive free agent option and potentially make much more than this projection. Unfortunately for him, he may have to settle for a lower salary because of his poor 2022 performance and the crowded pitching free agent class he finds himself in.

Recommendation

As the Mets suddenly have a porous rotation with only two of last year’s starters set to return for now, Manaea should absolutely be on the Mets’ radar. The Mets’ rotation in recent years has been plagued by injury, and Manaea has proven to be a durable and reliable pitching option throughout his career. And for approximately $12 million per year, he is absolutely in the price range of a team willing to spend big.

The Mets could also use Manaea’s lefty arm. David Peterson stepped up in a big way last year but has still been inconsistent in his career. Manaea would be a lefty presence who excels at limiting lefty batters, who have hit .210/.264/.337/.601 against him in his career. Perhaps this could allow Peterson to transition to the bullpen full-time, where his career ERA as a reliever (2.89) is far better than his career ERA as a starter (4.38).

With Max Scherzer and Carlos Carrasco confirmed back for the 2023 season and the Mets still in the market for more starting pitching, Manaea would likely serve as a middle or back-end of the rotation starter if he signs with the Mets for the 2023 season. Knowing that money won’t limit the Mets this offseason, the Mets should absolutely pursue Sean Manaea and hope he can return to pre-2022 form.

The post MMO Free Agent Profile: Sean Manaea, SP appeared first on Metsmerized.

Mandatory Credit: Brad Penner-USA TODAY Sports

Good morning, Mets fans!

On Friday, the Mets non-tendered Dominic Smith, making him a free agent. Smith had been with the Mets for parts of the last six seasons and he struggled to consistently produce with the team. The 2020 season, possibly in part because it was shortened, was by far his best season with the team as he produced a brilliant slash of .316/.377/.616/.993.

His 2021 and 2022 seasons were failures, as he was unable to come even close to having the success he had in his 2020 season. This move was widely expected and now Smith is free to sign with any team. Mike Puma of the New York Post already reports that the Royals and Rays could have interest in Smith this offseason.

In addition to Smith, Sean Reid-Foley is a free agent too as he was also non-tendered by the Mets.

Now onto the morning briefing!

Latest Mets News

The Mets made a trade with the Miami Marlins on Friday, acquiring pitchers Elieser Hernandez and Jeff Brigham in exchange for minor league pitcher Franklin Sanchez. Hernandez and Brigham were recently DFA’d by the Marlins, and they provide the Mets with pitching depth which they lacked last season.

In another move to add pitching depth, the Mets claimed pitcher William Woods off waivers from the Atlanta Braves.

Mark Canha and his wife, Marci, participated in the Mets’ turkey giveaway in Manhattan on Friday morning, giving Thanksgiving food to those in need.

Latest MLB News

The Minnesota Twins unveiled new uniforms, including new fonts and logos.

The Oakland Athletics announced that Billy Beane is shifting into a new role as “Senior Advisor to A’s Managing Partner”. David Forst, who has been with the A’s for over two decades, becomes the new head of baseball operations.

Jon Heyman reports that the Los Angeles Dodgers could make a serious run at Aaron Judge this offseason.

Jon Morosi reports that the San Francisco Giants are interested in free agent Kenley Jansen.

The Los Angeles Angels announced that they acquired infielder Gio Urshela in exchange for minor league pitcher Alejandro Hidalgo.

The Minnesota Twins acquired infielder Kyle Farmer from the Cincinnati Reds.

The Cincinatti Reds acquired infielder Kevin Newman from the Pittsburgh Pirates in exchange for reliever Dauri Moreta.

The Milwaulkee Breweres acquired pitcher Javy Guerra from the Tampa Bay Rays for a PTBNL.

Several players reached an agreement to avoid arbitration with their teams, including Isiah Kiner-Falefa, Lou Trivino, Miguel Andujar, and Mike Yastrzemski.

Several players were non-tendered by their teams on Friday, including Cody Bellinger, Jeimer Candelario, Danny Mendick, and Brian Anderson.

The Atlanta Braves signed lefty reliever Tyler Matzek to a two-year, $3.1 million contract. The deal also includes a $5.5 million club option for 2025. Matzek, who had Tommy John Surgery in October, is expected to miss the entire 2023 season.

The Colorado Rockies extended reliever Tyler Kinley to a three-year contract that includes a club option for 2026.

The San Diego Padres met on Thursday with Kodai Senga. Senga, who is expected to be pursued by many teams this offseason, is close with Yu Darvish, and has played with Nick Martinez and Robert Suarez previously in Japan.

The Los Angeles Dodgers claimed reliever Jake Reed on waivers from the Boston Red Sox.

Latest on MMO

Andrew Steele-Davis discusses a report by ESPN’s Jeff Passan that Brandon Nimmo could receive upwards of $130 million in free agency.

John Sheridan breaks down the Mets’ trade for two Marlins pitchers.

On This Date in Mets History

1979: The team’s Board of Directors announced its intention to sell the Mets before the 1980 season. This was the first time in the franchise’s history that the Mets were up for sale. Ultimately the team was sold to a group led by Nelson Doubleday and Fred Wilpon.

Birthdays: Francisco Álvarez (21)

The post Morning Briefing: Dominic Smith Becomes a Free Agent appeared first on Metsmerized.

Daniel Vogelbach

Player Data: Age: 29 (12/17/1992), B/T: L/R

Traditional Stats with Mets: 55 G, 183 PA, 149 AB, .255/.393/.436/.830, 6 HR, 25 RBI, 33 BB, 47 SO
Advanced Stats with Mets: 144 wRC+, 25.7 K%, 18.0 BB%, .333 BABIP, 1.0 fWAR, 0.9 bWAR

2022 Salary: $1 million

Grade: B

2022 Review

Daniel Vogelbach became a member of the New York Mets on July 22, when he was acquired from the Pittsburgh Pirates in exchange for rookie pitcher Colin Holderman. This was a significant move at the time, as the Mets traded away a young reliever in the midst of a fantastic first season in the majors for a pure power-hitting lefty bat, the type of player the Mets desperately needed. Some were disappointed in the trade as they wished Holderman remained a member of the team, while others lauded it as a necessary move for a Mets team needing some pop in its lineup.

At the time of the trade, Vogelbach played in 75 games with the Pirates and hit .228/.338/.430/.769 with 12 home runs and 34 RBIs. Despite a less-than-ideal batting average, Vogelbach’s on-base percentage and slugging percentage suggested that he was skilled at getting on base and providing power which is what made him an attractive trade option in the eyes of manager Buck Showalter and general manager Billy Eppler.

The biggest reason the Mets acquired Vogelbach is because they viewed him as part of the solution to two of the team’s biggest letdowns: the designated hitter role and the fifth spot in the order.

The Mets’ DH spot was a resounding disappointment in the first half of 2022. Dominic Smith and J.D. Davis combined for four home runs (all from Davis) and 24 RBIs in 221 plate appearances as a designated hitter. This lack of production forced Smith to be demoted to Triple-A and Davis to be traded at the trade deadline. As it pertains to the fifth spot in the order, this was the second-least productive spot in the order for the 2022 Mets only in front of the ninth spot. For all of 2022, Mets hitters in the fifth spot hit .215/.310/.343/.653 with 13 home runs and 70 RBIs in 691 plate appearances.

This type of repeated failure in both the designated hitter role and the fifth spot in the lineup was simply unacceptable, and Vogelbach was seen as the answer, at least against righties, to provide the quality results the Mets needed. Vogelbach has a career batting line of .238/.364/.458/.822 against righties, with 67 home runs and 190 RBI.

In short order after he was traded, Vogelbach became a fan favorite in New York. Fans and media alike were entranced by him in part because of his undeniable likability, but also because he got off to a hot start with his new team. From his debut on July 24 through August 22, Vogelbach batted a tremendous .284/.418/.541/.959 with four home runs and 15 RBI,s which must have exceeded even Showalter and Eppler’s wildest expectations.

Mandatory Credit: Brad Penner-USA TODAY Sports

Vogelbach came back down to Earth as the season winded down. From August 23 through the end of the season, he batted .227/.370/.333/.703 with two home runs and 10 RBIs. Then in the postseason series against San Diego, he was essentially a non-factor as he went 0-for-7 with a sacrifice fly in the three games.

In 2022, Vogelbach more often than not provided the Mets with exactly what they expected of him. He seemed at times to be the target of anger from fans who called the Mets’ trade deadline a failure, but it would be unfair to group him with the other players who were acquired, given his objectively positive performance with the team. He went through some cold stretches, but his ability to consistently get on base, hit for power and provide protection for Pete Alonso in the lineup was evident the entire time. His 139 OPS+ and 144 wRC+ with the team suggest that he was the massive upgrade they thought he would be, which is why he is deserving of a B grade.

2023 Outlook

On November 8, the Mets announced that they exercised Vogelbach’s club option for the 2023 season. The option was for $1.5 million, an easy decision for a player of Vogelbach’s caliber. A salary of only $1.5 million could make Vogelbach expendable if he fails to meet expectations, but the Mets fully expect him to outperform this number in 2023.

Barring any surprise free agent signings or trades, Vogelbach will once again be the Mets’ designated hitter against right-handed pitchers. He isn’t a multidimensional player, so he won’t provide defense or at-bats against lefties, but his ability to mash righties makes him a valuable asset for the team next season.

The post 2022 Mets Report Card: Daniel Vogelbach, DH appeared first on Metsmerized.

USA TODAY Sports

Good morning, Mets fans!

Mike Puma of the New York post reports that Seth Lugo has garnered interest from several teams in the early stages of free agency. Puma added that the Mets have not been one of those teams.

Lugo has been a staple in the Mets’ bullpen since 2016. In 2022, after a shaky start to the season, he became one of the more reliable pieces of the bullpen and was often used interchangeably with Adam Ottavino in high leverage situations. Across seven seasons with the team, Lugo has put up a 3.48 ERA in just shy of 500 innings.

The Mets’ bullpen at the start of the offseason is desolate and Billy Eppler will be tasked with rebuilding it. According to Puma, Lugo may not be part of that process.

Latest Mets News

Baseball Prospectus listed the Mets’ top prospects heading into the 2023 season.

Nine players who spent time in the Mets organization in 2022 have become Minor League free agents. This list includes Travis Blankenhorn, Travis Jankowski, and Adonis Medina.

Mets pitching prospect Jawilme Ramirez has been named the FCL Pitcher of the Year.

Latest MLB News

The Houston Astros and General Manager James Click have parted ways after Click rejected a one-year contract offer from the Astros. Jeff Passan also reports that the team has fired Assistant General Manager Scott Powers, who was brought to the organization by Click. You can read more about this divorce here.

The Tampa Bay Rays have hired Jon Daniels as a senior advisor for baseball operations. Daniels previously served as the Rangers’ General Manager and President of Baseball Operations up until August of this year.

Jose Ureña and the Colorado Rockies have agreed on a contract for the 2023 season. The deal is one-year, $3.5 million with an option for 2024.

Nick Anderson is in agreement with the Atlanta Braves on a major league contract that will pay him $875,000 for 2023 if he plays in on the Major League team.

Dodgers reliever Blake Treinen had surgery to repair his right shoulder labrum and rotator cuff. He is expected to miss most, or all, of the 2023 season.

The Minnesota Twins are reportedly unveiling a new team logo and new uniforms next Friday, November 18.

Inside Edge released their 2022 All Remarkable Team, a group of players who had remarkable seasons for one reason or another. Jeff McNeil and Edwin Diaz were the Mets players included.

Latest on MMO

Chris Bello writes about Kodai Senga and Masataka Yoshida as MMO’s Michael Mayer has reported that the Mets have scouted both players.

Andrew Steele-Davis profiles free agent Trea Turner and discusses whether he could be a fit for the Mets.

Robby Waldrop analyzes some of the predictions made by MLB Trade Rumors for who the Mets could sign in free agency.

On This Date in Mets History

1975: Tom Seaver was awarded his third Cy Young Award on this day 47 years ago. Tom was truly terrific as he complied a 22-9 record with a 2.38 ERA across 280 1/3 innings. He also led the league in strikeouts with 243.

Birthdays: Aaron Heilman (44), Gary Thurman (58), Al Schmelz (79)

The post Morning Briefing: Multiple Teams Interested in Seth Lugo appeared first on Metsmerized.

Player Data: Age: 30 (4/8/1992), B/T: L/R

Traditional Stats: 148 G, 589 PA, 533 AB, .326/.382/.454/.836, 9 HR, 62 RBI, 40 BB, 61 SO

Advanced Stats: 143 wRC+, 10.4% K%, 6.8% BB%, .353 BABIP, .323 xwOBA, 5.9 fWAR, 5.7 bWAR

2022 Salary: $3 million

Grade: A+

2022 Review

Looking back at the 2022 New York Mets, a team etched in the franchise’s 60 year history as one of the best, no one is deserving of more praise than Jeff McNeil. On a team filled with talent including Jacob deGrom, Max Scherzer, Edwin Diaz, Pete Alonso, and Francisco Lindor, McNeil made a case as arguably the most important and productive member of the team.

McNeil had an uncharacteristically poor 2021 season in which he batted .251/.319/.360/.679 with 7 home runs and 35 RBIs through 426 plate appearances. This down year led to a lot of discussion among Mets fans and media about whether McNeil would or should be traded. Instead, the Mets decided to keep him, believing his 2021 season to be a fluke.

Right from the start of the 2022 season, McNeil looked like he was back to being the elite contact hitter he was prior to 2021. After going the entire 2021 season without a month batting over .300, McNeil strung together three straight months from April-June in which he batted .328, .311, and .339 respectively, with an OPS eclipsing .800 in each of those months as well.

July was a tumultuous month for McNeil, who experienced his first extended slump of the season. His .319 batting average at the beginning of the month would creep all the way down to .294 by the month’s end. In 21 games in July, he batted .208/.274/.299/.573. Still, his strong first half of the season was enough to be named a National League All-Star for the second time in his career. Even better, he was named the National League starter at second base, the first Met to start in the All-Star Game since David Wright in 2013.

One way to describe McNeil’s performance in August would be resilient. After experiencing by far his worst month of the season, McNeil turned it around by producing by far his best month of the season. His August was nothing short of spectacular, as he slashed .385/.414/.560/.973 in 29 games.

His September and October were much of the same. In 31 games from September 1 through the end of the season, he batted .357/.425/.452/.878. During a time when the NL East divisional race was growing tighter and more stressful, McNeil continued to produce. From September 23 through October 4, a span of ten games that were of the utmost importance, McNeil recorded a hit in every game and slashed .465/.500/.651/1.151. In eight out of the ten games, McNeil recorded two or more hits.

This final surge to end the regular season pushed McNeil’s batting average up to .326, just enough to beat Freddie Freeman for the National League and Major League batting titles. McNeil became the first Met since Jose Reyes in 2011 to win the National League batting title, and the first Met ever to win the Major League batting title.

Along with his expertise at the plate, McNeil flashed the glove quite a bit for the Mets this past season. His 8 OAA at second base was tied for fifth in the Major Leagues. In addition to playing second base, McNeil provided invaluable defensive flexibility as he played a considerable amount of left field and right field as well. While he may not be known as a defensive wizard like Francisco Lindor or Luis Guillorme, McNeil routinely made tough plays look easy this year, and that solidified him as a great defensive player.

Jeff McNeil’s 2022 season was simply brilliant. Whether it be with his bat or his glove, he was a pivotal piece to the Mets’ success this year and is one of only a few deserving of an A+ grade.

2023 Outlook

As of now, McNeil figures to be the everyday second baseman for the Mets in 2023. This could change depending on a few possible scenarios that could occur this offseason.

If the Mets fail to retain Brandon Nimmo and do not sign another starting outfielder in free agency, we could see Starling Marte move to center field and McNeil perhaps play a role in right field. This could allow the Mets to sign somebody like Trea Turner to be the team’s second baseman. However, McNeil is more comfortable and more natural at second base, so we could see the Mets go after someone such as Aaron Judge to play in the outfield, which would keep McNeil at second base.

McNeil is under team control for the next two seasons, so he will once again be a major presence on the Mets next season. He will be turning 31 at the beginning of the season, so it will be interesting to see whether his age causes him to decline or whether he can build off of his elite 2022 season.

The post 2022 Mets Report Card: Jeff McNeil, 2B appeared first on Metsmerized.

Credit: Gregory Fisher-USA TODAY Sports

Good morning, Mets fans!

Francisco Lindor has been named the 2022 Marvin Miller Man of the Year by the Major League Baseball Players Association. For the award, players were asked to vote for the player they “most respect based on his leadership on the field and in the community.” In addition to being an involved and vocal leader on the field, Lindor has done plenty of work for his community in his free time and was a dedicated champion of players’ rights during the MLB lockout involving CBA negotiations this past offseason.

Now onto the morning briefing!

The MLBPA has voted Francisco Lindor the 2022 Marvin Miller Man of the Year winner. The award is given to the player whose whose on-field performance and contributions to his community inspire others to higher levels of achievement.
Hard to think of a more deserving recipient! pic.twitter.com/SOOscrZ0C5

— Metsmerized Online (@Metsmerized) November 4, 2022

Latest Mets News

Mike Puma of the New York Post spoke to Mark Canha recently. Canha expressed his desire to finish his career with the Mets and said of Jacob deGrom: “Jake told me he wants to come back, too, and he really likes it here, too.” 

Latest MLB News

Jon Heyman of the New York Post reports that all signs point to David Stearns not receiving permission to interview elsewhere while he is under contract with the Brewers in 2023.

Jon Heyman adds that the sale of the Los Angeles Angels is serious and will happen, and that the team will likely sell for more than the $2.4 billion Steve Cohen used to buy the Mets.

Jon Heyman continues that the Royals are expected to bring back Zack Greinke for the 2023 season.

The MLBPA announced its 31st Annual Players Choice Award Winners. Among the winners were Aaron Judge for overall Player of the Year and American League Outstanding Player, and Paul Goldschmidt for National League Outstanding Player.

Joon Lee of ESPN writes that, despite the fact that his contract expired on October 31, Brian Cashman will continue to act as the Yankees general manager.

In a press conference on Friday, Brian Cashman told the media that the Yankees will pick up Luis Severino‘s $15 million club option.

Matt Monagan of MLB.com spoke to Red Sox clubhouse manager Tom McLaughlin about the behind-the-scenes planning of a champagne celebration.

The Arizona Fall League announced its schedule and the rosters for “Fall Stars Weekend,” set to take place tonight and tomorrow night at Sloan Park in Mesa, Arizona.

In the aftermath of the Fernando Tatis PED suspension, James Wagner of the New York Times wonders why Dominican players make up half of the players suspended for positive drug tests.

The Orioles have signed Jake Cave to a contract for the 2023 season. Cave was claimed off waivers from the Twins on October 11.

Latest on MMO

Alexis Farinacci recaps the impressive 2022 season for the St. Lucie Mets.

Matthew Brownstein interviews Mets area scout Jim Reeves.

Michael Mayer lists what an expert believes Mets free agents will command on the open market.

On This Date in Mets History

1990: Darryl Strawberry became a free agent after eight stellar years with the Mets. Three days later, on November 8, he would sign with the Los Angeles Dodgers and his Mets career came to a close.

Birthdays: Jose Santiago (48), Mike Bishop (64), Jim Bethke (76)

The post Morning Briefing: Francisco Lindor Voted Marvin Miller Man of the Year appeared first on Metsmerized.

Credit: Kyle Ross-USA TODAY Sports

Good morning, Mets fans!

The World Series commenced Friday night with the Philadelphia Phillies defeating the Houston Astros, 6-5. The Astros built a 5-0 lead early aided by two home runs from Kyle Tucker, but Justin Verlander couldn’t hold back the Phillies’ potent offense and the game was quickly tied 5-5. The game headed into extra innings after Nick Castellanos made a sliding grab with two outs in the ninth inning that would have won the game for the Astros had he not made the great defensive play. J.T. Realmuto led off the 10th inning with an opposite field home run, his third RBI of the night. That was enough for David Robertson, who came into the game in the bottom of the 10th inning for the save.

Game 2 will air tonight on FOX at 8:03 p.m. ET.

Down 5-0 to up 6-5.

What a comeback. #WorldSeries pic.twitter.com/sKJZOzUsNs

— MLB (@MLB) October 29, 2022

Now onto the morning briefing!

Latest Mets News

According to Mike Puma of the New York Post, the Mets plan to slightly move in the right-center field fence at Citi Field to implement a new fan experience attraction.

Formet Mets pitcher Zack Wheeler told Mike Puma of the New York Post that Jacob deGrom is happy in New York amidst rumors regarding his impending free agency. Noah Syndergaard added that he would be “surprised” if deGrom left for another team this offseason.

"He told me he is happy there. I just think he wants to get compensated for what he's done."

Zack Wheeler talks about Jacob deGrom's future in New York https://t.co/W7wL9cQlmn pic.twitter.com/c0hdiB89JZ

— SNY (@SNYtv) October 28, 2022

Latest MLB News

Jon Heyman of the New York Post reports that with Trea Turner‘s impending free agency, the Los Angeles Dodgers are keeping an eye on Carlos Correa. The team’s preference, though, is to bring Turner back.

Robert Murray of FanSided reports that Adam Wainwright‘s new contract next year is for one year, $17 million. 2023 is expected to be the final year of his career.

Latest on MMO

The MMO Roundtable staff shares their picks for who will win the World Series.

Michael Mayer discusses the Texas Rangers’ reported interest in Jacob deGrom this offseason.

Michael Mayer and Sal Manzo interview Tim Britton from The Athletic as they discuss a wide range of topics including Buck Showalter, Jacob deGrom and Edwin Diaz.

On This Date in Mets History

1969: Tom Seaver won the first of his three Cy Young Awards in a nearly unanimous decision. Seaver finished the year with an MLB-best 25 wins and a 2.21 ERA across 273 1/3 innings pitched.

1993: Rey Ordóñez signed a free agent contract with the Mets after defecting from Cuba. He went on to spend seven years with the team before being traded.

Birthdays: Ender Inciarte (32), Dana Eveland (39), Karim Garcia (47), R.A. Dickey (48)

The post Morning Briefing: Phillies Stun Astros in Game 1 appeared first on Metsmerized.

Good morning Mets fans!

On Friday, The Texas Rangers announced they have hired Bruce Bochy to a three-year contract to be the team’s manager. Bochy previously managed the San Diego Padres and the San Francisco Giants, winning three World Series championships with the latter.

Additionally, The Toronto Blue Jays announced they have agreed to terms on a three-year contract with interim manager John Schneider to become the team’s full time manager. The contract also includes a team option for the 2026 season.

Friday night, the Philadelphia Phillies defeated the San Diego Padres 4-2 in NLCS Game 3, taking a 2-1 series lead. Kyle Schwarber, Jean Segura, and Alec Bohm provided the offense while Seranthony Dominguez recorded the save to give Philadelphia the series advantage.

Bruce Bochy has been hired as manager of the Texas Rangers, agreeing to a three-year contract covering the 2023-25 seasons. pic.twitter.com/trH7Di13SB

— Texas Rangers PR (@TXRangersPR) October 21, 2022

Now onto the morning briefing!

Latest Mets News

The Mets sent a tweet on Friday encouraging fans to vote for Pete Alonso for the National League Hank Aaron Award. To cast your vote, you can click here.

Latest MLB News

Ken Rosenthal reports the Kansas City Royals interviewed Rays bench coach Matt Quatraro for the team’s open managerial position this past week. Quatraro is also a candidate for the open managerial position for the Miami Marlins.

Jon Morosi reports that Cardinals bench coach Skip Schumaker has interviewed for the Miami Marlins manager position and is considered one of the top candidates for the job. Schumaker, a former player, spent 11 years playing in the MLB before transitioning to coaching.

Zach Meisel of The Athletic confirmed Terry Francona will return as the Cleveland Guardians manager in 2023.

FOX Sports announced it will air the entirety of the 2023 World Baseball Classic across the FOX Sports family of networks.

Latest on MMO

Bryan Cameron lists the top five moments of the Mets 2022 season.

Jack Markowski ranks the top 10 free agents this offseason.

Rich Sparago argues why Keith Hernandez deserves to be in the Hall of Fame.

On This Date in Mets History

1986: Lenny Dykstra hit a home run for the second straight game as the Mets defeated the Red Sox 6-2 in Game 4 of the World Series. Gary Carter launched a three-run shot of his own and Ron Darling pitched seven shutout innings as the Mets evened the series 2-2.

2000: The Mets fell to the Yankees 6-5 in Game 2 of the World Series, as a five-run rally in the ninth inning wasn’t enough to take down their crosstown rivals. In the first inning, Roger Clemens infamously threw part of Mike Piazza‘s bat back at him after a pitch inside jammed Piazza’s bat and sent the barrel flying toward the mound. Clemens would go on to pitch eight shutout innings before the Mets nearly erased a six-run deficit in the ninth.

Birthdays: Carlos Torres (40), Robinson Canó (40), Darren O’Day (40)

The post Morning Briefing: Rangers Hire Bruce Bochy As Manager appeared first on Metsmerized.

Oct 14, 2022; Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, USA; Philadelphia Phillies first baseman Rhys Hoskins celebrates after hitting a three-run home run against the Atlanta Braves during the 3rd inning in game three of the NLDS for the 2022 MLB Playoffs at Citizens Bank Park. Mandatory Credit: Bill Streicher-USA TODAY Sports

Good morning, Mets fans!

Three Division Series games took place on Friday, with the underdog coming away victorious in all three. It started with the Cleveland Guardians defeating the New York Yankees. With the game headed to extra innings, Jameson Taillon came on for a rare relief appearance and surrendered two runs in the top of the 10th without recording an out. Emmanuel Clase earned the save for Cleveland, recording the final seven outs of the game as Cleveland evened the series 1-1.

In the next game, the Philadelphia Phillies’ offense exploded at the expense of Spencer Strider and the Atlanta Braves, winning 9-1. Rhys Hoskins provided the big blow with a three-run homer in the third inning. With the victory, the Phillies took a 2-1 series lead.

The night game saw the San Diego Padres come out on top over the Los Angeles Dodgers, 2-1. Jake Cronenworth and Trent Grisham drove in the only two runs the Padres needed, as they now lead the series 2-1.

Now onto the morning briefing!

Latest Mets News

During a press conference Friday morning, general manager Billy Eppler reflected on the sudden end to the Mets season, the team’s trade deadline, and the team’s relationship with Jacob deGrom.

"We did build the team to be able to pitch in the postseason…ultimately we fell short at the very end"

Billy Eppler reflects on the Mets' season: pic.twitter.com/WN5m321jfP

— SNY (@SNYtv) October 14, 2022

Latest MLB News

The St. Louis Cardinals announced Friday that Hall of Famer and Cy Young award winner Bruce Sutter passed away late Thursday night due to cancer at the age of 69. Sutter won the Cy Young Award in 1979 as a member of the Chicago Cubs, and he is one of just a handful of relievers to ever win the award. He was also a member of the 1982 St. Louis Cardinals World Series championship team. At the time of his retirement, he sat at an even 300 saves for his career.

Joel Sherman of the New York Post reports the qualifying offer this offseason will be $19.65 million.

Ken Rosenthal reports that Bruce Bochy met with Rangers GM Chris Young about the team’s open managerial position. Bochy last managed with the San Francisco Giants in 2019.

The Baltimore Orioles have claimed Jake Cave off of waivers from the Minnesota Twins. In a corresponding move, the team designated former Mets pitcher Jake Reed for assignment.

Today marks Opening Day in the Dominican Winter League, with streaming available via MLB.TV.

Latest on MMO

Chris Bello grades Taijuan Walker‘s season with the Mets.

Jack Markowski argues that the Mets need to invest in power hitters this offseason.

Michael Mayer describes the highlights of Billy Eppler’s press conference on Friday.

On This Date in Mets History

1969: The Mets defeated the Orioles in Game 4 of the World Series, 2-1. Tom Seaver led the way with a 10 inning complete game, surrendering just one run, and bringing the Mets one win closer to their first World Series title.

1986: The Mets defeated the Astros in Game 6 of the NLCS, 7-6, as they won the National League Pennant for the first time in 13 years. The game lasted 16 innings, the most ever for a postseason game at that time, and ended with Jesse Orosco pitching the final three innings and earning the victory.

Birthdays: Lou Klimchock (83)

The post Morning Briefing: Upsets Looming in Postseason appeared first on Metsmerized.

Credit: Brad Penner-USA TODAY Sports

Good morning, Mets fans.

Friday night, the Mets fell to the San Diego Padres 7-1, dropping a crucial first game of the Wild Card Series. Max Scherzer gave up seven runs in 4 2/3 innings, conceding four home runs. Eduardo Escobar provided the lone Mets run with a solo home run in the fifth inning.

This is the first time in New York Mets history that they have allowed four home runs in one playoff game, according to @ESPNStatsInfo. Before tonight, they had played 89 postseason games.

— Jeff Passan (@JeffPassan) October 8, 2022

Chris Bello provides a more in-depth analysis of Game 1. Game 2 of the Wild Card series will begin Saturday night at 7:37 PM EST. Jacob deGrom (5-4, 3.08 ERA) will attempt to save the season for the Mets as he matches up against Blake Snell (8-10, 3.38 ERA). The game will once again be televised on ESPN.

Now, it’s time for the morning briefing.

Latest Mets News

Max Scherzer made some unfortunate history on Friday night, becoming the first pitcher since 1939 to allow four-plus home runs and seven-plus earned runs in a playoff game.

Starling Marte was activated off the injured list and played in his first game action in over a month on Friday night. He went 2-for-4 with 2 stolen bases.

The Mets have DFA’d Michael Perez, who appeared in six games for the team earlier this year. He tallied three RBIs in 16 plate appearances during his stint.

Bradford William Davis wrote an article in GQ Sports on Friday in which he inquires about the Mets, food, and life with Mark Canha and Trevor May.

Max Scherzer is the first pitcher since 1939 to allow 4+ home runs and 7+ earned runs in a playoff game.

— MLB Metrics (@MLBMetrics) October 8, 2022

Latest MLB News

Shane Bieber outlasted Shane McClanahan in a pitching duel as the Cleveland Guardians defeat the Tampa Bay Rays 2-1.

The Philadelphia Phillies stormed back after being down 2-0 entering the ninth inning and stun the St. Louis Cardinals as their bullpen faltered late. The Phillies prevailed 6-3.

The Seattle Mariners ambushed Alek Manoah by posting three runs in the first inning, while Luis Castillo tosses a gem as the Mariners triumphed over the Toronto Blue Jays 4-0.

Tony Beasley, the interim manager for the Texas Rangers, met with GM Chris Young to interview for the full-time managerial job.

Latest on MMO

Andrew Steele-Davis analyzes what it means for the Mets to have Starling Marte and Francisco Alvarez on the Wild Card roster.

Jack Markowski breaks down the position-by-position matchup between the Mets and Padres.

Rich Sparago compares the 2022 Mets season with the other historic years in which the Mets won 100 games.

On This Date in Mets History

1973: The Mets defeat the Reds 9-2 to take a 2-1 series lead in the NLCS. Rusty Staub knocked in four runs and Jerry Koosman pitched a complete game, giving up two runs on eight hits while striking out nine and walking zero.

1988: The Mets defeat the Dodgers 8-4 to take a 2-1 series lead in the NLCS. Darryl Strawberry and Wally Backman led the way with three and two RBIs respectively. Randy Myers collected the win out of the bullpen, recording just one out.

Birthdays: Colin Holderman (27), Gosuke Katoh (28)

The post Morning Briefing: Mets Throttled as Elimination Looms appeared first on Metsmerized.