Zack Wheeler has established himself as one half of the gruesome twosome atop the Mets rotation. If Noah Syndergaard can stay healthy, they could have a tremendous trio, but that’s a topic for another day.
Wheeler dominated yet again on Friday against the Marlins, and has given fans something to look forward to every fifth day.
“He is aggressive toward the hitters and goes after them like he knows his stuff is better than them,” manager Mickey Callaway said.
The right-hander twirled seven strong innings, holding Miami to just two runs, while striking out eight and walking one. He lowered his season ERA to 3.82 in the process.
In his career, Wheeler has always had success against the Marlins, particularly in their territory. He has started six games at Marlins Park and has registered a 1.55 ERA.
“When you have good numbers here, it gives you a little bit more confidence,” Wheeler said. “You still have to go out there and attack and go with the game plan, and I was able to do that today for the most part.”
Friday was no different as the lone blemish off Wheeler came on a two-run homer in the bottom of the seventh from Miguel Rojas.
“I haven’t seen him pitch that much, but that’s the best I’ve ever seen him,” Marlins manager Don Mattingly said.
In his last five starts, Wheeler has gone 5-0 with a 2.08 ERA and has fanned 34 batters.
“I am attacking the zone hard and trying to get strike one and get the out after that, whether it is a strikeout or ground ball,” Wheeler said.
Wheeler has now tossed 134.1 innings, his highest since 2014 pre-Tommy John surgery. However, Callaway said the team could ride Wheeler out the rest of the season if he continues to feel good.
“It wouldn’t be pushing him — as long as he can just go with the flow and continue to work the way he’s working,” Callaway said. “At this point, we just want to continue to monitor his effectiveness.”
Said Wheeler: “Honestly, I haven’t even thought about the innings.”
See you five days from now, when we will celebrate Wheeler Day again!
