Mets Make Key Pitching Decisions as Season Approaches Climax

MIAMI — The New York Mets face crucial decisions as they prepare for Game No. 161, with Clay Holmes slated to start Saturday against the Nationals. The Mets, fighting for a playoff spot, will turn to Holmes and Sean Manaea for one of their most critical games of the season.

Manager Carlos Mendoza has decided on Holmes due to his quicker recovery after both pitchers appeared in relief on Wednesday. “Clay was feeling a lot better,” Mendoza said. While Manaea is also ready, Mendoza opted for Holmes, who has been the team’s most consistent starter aside from rookie Nolan McLean.

The Mets fall behind Cincinnati in the race for the NL’s final wild card spot, and Arizona remains close behind. If the Mets remain in contention, it’s likely Mendoza will consider using Manaea and David Peterson, both of whom have struggled recently.

Holmes has transitioned from reliever to starter this season and has a 3.66 ERA over 159⅔ innings, a career-high. He noted the excitement of playing in such high-stakes games. “There’s really not a better feeling in the world,” Holmes said. During his last start on Sept. 16, he allowed two earned runs against the Padres.

Manaea, who has a 5.80 ERA in 14 appearances this season, recognized the challenge of these final games. “It’s definitely going to be a challenge,” he said. “At this point, it’s just whatever it takes.”

Following the Mets’ recent struggles, including a painful 10-3 loss to the Cubs, Mendoza is scrambling for solutions in a tight playoff race. Rookie Jonah Tong faced difficulties starting that game, raising concerns about the effectiveness of the pitching staff.

While the Mets rely on inexperienced arms, Mendoza is evaluating their performance closely. “We’ll piece it together,” he said. “We’ll continue to find ways to get 27 outs.” As they prepare for the critical match-up on Saturday, the pressure mounts to secure a postseason berth.

The stakes are high, and how the Mets deploy their pitchers could determine their fate in the playoffs.