Mets’ Manager Faces Strategic Decisions Amid Playoff Struggles

NEW YORK — The New York Mets faced a tough crowd at Citi Field during their 8-0 loss to the Los Angeles Dodgers in Game 3 of the National League Championship Series. As the Mets trailed in the best-of-seven series, attention turned to managerial decisions that might have shifted the game’s trajectory.

In the sixth inning, with runners on first and second base, and the team down 4-0, Mets manager Carlos Mendoza chose to stick with right-handed batter Jose Iglesias, who has been hitting .225 in the postseason. Iglesias faced Dodgers’ right-handed reliever, known for his skill on the mound, despite Jeff McNeil being a potential left-handed pinch-hitting option.

Mendoza explained his decision, citing Iglesias’ strong performance with runners in scoring positions throughout the season. “Iglesias has been one of our best hitters with runners in scoring position all year,” Mendoza said. “For the guys behind him, maybe [we could have considered a change]. The lefties were ready. But not for Iglesias.” Ultimately, Iglesias grounded into an inning-ending double play, missing a critical opportunity to close the score gap.

Francisco Alvarez, the Mets’ catcher, also faced scrutiny after a challenging game. Offensively, Alvarez struggled, falling to 5-for-35 in the postseason, while defensively, his errant throw contributed to two unearned Dodgers’ runs in the second inning. Despite these setbacks, Mendoza confirmed that Alvarez would continue as the starting catcher, emphasizing his late swing timing as the primary issue. “He’s late making his move, which is not allowing him to make some good swing decisions,” Mendoza noted.

Amid the team’s batting struggles, Alvarez isn’t the only concern for the Mets. Their lineup has registered two shutouts in the series so far. Mendoza’s strategic reliance on players like Alvarez is influenced by past performances, with a hope they can overcome their hitting slumps. “I’m going to continue to ride our guys,” he stated. “They got us here. They will continue to step up.”

As the Mets prepare for Game 4, Mendoza expressed his intent to field a lineup primarily featuring right-handed batters, considering the Dodgers’ scheduled right-handed pitcher has been more effective against left-handed batters this season. Consequently, this strategy will keep designated hitter Martinez and second baseman Iglesias in the lineup, keeping McNeil on the bench.

With the series still in play, the Mets must examine their strategies and player performances against the Dodgers’ formidable pitching to turn the series around.