At an important game against the Athletics, the Mets turned to Freddy Peralta in hopes that his performance would end their five-game losing streak. Peralta turned in an outstanding outing against Oakland; showing promise and resilience on the mound; however, their offense ultimately could not provide the runs necessary to seal victory for themselves.
Peralta discussed his performance after the game and admitted he wasn’t at his sharpest; still he managed to hold back Nick Kurtz from hitting a homer over six innings for just one run for Oakland Athletics. Peralta noted how they adjusted as the game continued, explaining: “We made adjustments as necessary and improved as time progressed.
Peralta’s late-game execution was notable, as he retired six of the final seven batters he faced. He overcame a two-out walk in the fifth inning and completed a scoreless sixth inning. Throughout his time on the mound, he issued three walks, gave up four hits, and struck out six batters. Mets manager Carlos Mendoza commended Peralta’s effort, noting that although his pitch count rose due to foul balls and extended at-bats, he still managed to pitch six innings. He added, “Except for the breaking ball on the homer, I thought he was very good.”
Sean Manaea then entered to relieve Peralta, and also made an impressive statement with an outstanding outing. Although his fastball velocity had decreased compared to last season–averageing only 87.3mph–Manaea still managed the final three innings successfully by retiring all nine batters he faced and recording four strikeouts; maintaining composure and command throughout. His presence kept the Mets competitive all through their remaining innings.
Mendoza had high praise for Manaea’s approach, noting his aggression: “Very good. Attacked well with strikes while maintaining velocity on his fastball… His delivery, how he moved around…I really appreciate his aggressiveness overall — not only did he give us three innings but kept us there, giving us another opportunity.” Looking ahead for Manaea and Manaea as part of an already impressive pitching staff while offense attempts to find its foothold once more is promising for success for these Mets teams in 2016.