NEW YORK – Carlos Mendoza has a straightforward approach to tackle the Mets’ second shutout in three games: stick with what they have.
In Game 3 of the National League Championship Series on Wednesday at Citi Field, the Mets faced an 8-0 defeat to the Dodgers, putting them in a 2-1 deficit in the best-of-seven series. They failed to score, even though they had promising opportunities. Their defense broke down, and their three pitchers—Luis Severino, Reed Garrett, and Tylor Megill—each allowed multiple runs.
Despite this, Mendoza remains hopeful. In Game 1 on Sunday, the Mets struggled even more offensively, managing only three singles. However, when their manager utilized the same lineup the following day, they responded with six runs in the first two innings of Game 2.
Mendoza is looking for a similar outcome on Thursday in Game 4.
“The players we have in the lineup got us here,” Mendoza stated. “I have confidence that they’ll rise to the occasion.”
For the Mets to succeed, they must capitalize on the crucial hits that escaped them on Wednesday. They cannot afford to go hitless with runners in scoring position again, nor can they leave another eight men stranded on base.
In other words, they must not waste promising situations like the one that arose in the second inning: the bases were loaded, Walker Buehler was under pressure, and Francisco Lindor stepped to the plate. While Lindor hesitated to claim that Buehler’s 3-2 knuckle curve surprised him, he ultimately swung and missed. The Mets could not recover, failing to advance any runner beyond second base for the remainder of the game.
“That was the pivotal pitch of the game,” said Dodgers manager Dave Roberts. “The crowd was electric, and momentum was shifting. Getting a great hitter out with a breaking ball down below the zone was significant.”
Given the limited success of the current starting nine in the NLCS, why would the Mets stick with the same lineup? One reason is Mendoza’s belief in staying calm under pressure. On the day the Mets secured a playoff spot by defeating the Braves in Game 161, they employed a similar lineup to the one they used on Wednesday. Aside from the designated hitter position, which has alternated between J.D. Martinez and Jesse Winker in October, the same roster has been utilized across all ten postseason games.
“I plan to keep riding with our players,” Mendoza affirmed. “They brought us this far, and I believe they will keep stepping up.”
However, it’s worth noting that the Mets did not have a fully fit Jeff McNeil for the first seven games of the postseason, and his exact condition leading into this series was uncertain. Mendoza valued McNeil enough to include him on the NLCS roster but not enough to use him as a pinch hitter for Jose Iglesias in Game 3, even when there were two men on base and one out against right-handed reliever Ryan Brasier in the sixth inning.
With Dodgers lefty Anthony Banda warming up, Mendoza opted to let Iglesias face Brasier rather than McNeil against Banda. This decision backfired when Iglesias grounded into an inning-ending double play.
“I’m ready whenever they call my name,” McNeil said, who later flied out in a less critical situation an inning later. “It is what it is. These guys have been leading us, so I guess we’re sticking with them.”
McNeil pointed to his two line drives against Dodgers Game 4 starter Yoshinobu Yamamoto back in April as proof that he would be a valuable addition to the lineup. However, Mendoza indicated that McNeil would not make the lineup card due to Yamamoto’s reverse platoon splits.
“I felt like I saw the ball well against Yamamoto,” McNeil reflected. “Personally, I perform best against fastball-changeup pitchers. I believe I can stay through the ball well, which is why I handle changeups effectively—a splitter in his case. But yes, we’ll see.”
McNeil isn’t the only one expected to be on the bench Thursday. Winker, who reached base in seven of his last 14 plate appearances prior to Game 3, will likely remain sidelined due to Yamamoto’s splits. Mendoza had previously cited Buehler’s “neutral” splits as a reason for starting Martinez on Wednesday, who ended the game 0-for-2 with two walks.
Additionally, right-handed catcher Francisco Alvarez, who has gone 5-for-35 (.143) with 13 strikeouts this postseason, will be back in the lineup on Thursday, as per Mendoza, because “he’s a good player.”
“He’ll deliver for us,” the manager added.
The Mets desperately need him to. They require someone—anyone, really—if they hope to extend their postseason run.
Mets Manager Carlos Mendoza Sticks with Lineup Despite NLCS Struggles, Looks for Turnaround in Game 4
The New York Mets are facing a pivotal moment in the National League Championship Series (NLCS), and manager Carlos Mendoza is standing firm with his lineup. After encountering challenges in the first three games, Mendoza’s decision to maintain consistency rather than make drastic changes speaks volumes about his strategy and confidence in the team’s potential. As the Mets prepare for Game 4, let’s dive deeper into Mendoza’s lineup choices, the team’s struggles, and what fans can expect moving forward.
The Context of the NLCS
The Mets entered the NLCS with high hopes, buoyed by a strong regular-season performance. However, the postseason has presented unique challenges that have tested the team’s resilience and adaptability. Understanding the context of these struggles can provide insight into Mendoza’s decision-making process.
Key Challenges Facing the Mets
- Inconsistent Hitting: Despite a powerful lineup, the Mets have struggled to find their rhythm at the plate.
- Pitching Performance: The starting pitchers have had ups and downs, affecting the team’s overall momentum.
- Defensive Errors: Mistakes in the field have led to crucial runs for the opposing team, putting added pressure on the offense.
Mendoza’s Stance on Lineup Consistency
In the face of adversity, Carlos Mendoza has chosen to stick with his starting lineup. This decision is often a double-edged sword, as it can either lead to a breakout performance or further exacerbate struggles. Understanding Mendoza’s thought process sheds light on the strategic mindset of a seasoned manager.
Reasons for Sticking with the Lineup
- Building Confidence: Mendoza believes that allowing players to work through their struggles can build confidence and camaraderie.
- Fostering Team Chemistry: Consistency in the lineup helps develop on-field chemistry, which is crucial in high-pressure situations.
- Long-Term Vision: Mendoza is looking beyond the immediate results, focusing on the bigger picture and long-term development of the team.
Key Players to Watch in Game 4
As the Mets prepare for Game 4, certain players will be under the spotlight. Their performance could be pivotal in turning the tide of the series.
| Player | Position | Key Stats in NLCS | Expectations for Game 4 |
|---|---|---|---|
| Francisco Lindor | Shortstop | .220 AVG, 2 RBIs | Needs to elevate performance at the plate |
| Pete Alonso | First Base | .150 AVG, 1 HR | Looking for power to ignite the offense |
| Brandon Nimmo | Center Field | .250 AVG, 1 SB | Key for setting the table in early innings |
Fans’ Perspective and Reaction
The decision to maintain the same lineup has sparked varied reactions among Mets fans. While some applaud Mendoza for his steadfastness, others express frustration over the lack of immediate change. This section explores the sentiments of the fanbase and what they hope to see in Game 4.
Common Fan Sentiments
- Support for Consistency: Many fans appreciate the manager’s confidence in the players, understanding that slumps are part of the game.
- Calls for Change: Others contend that a shake-up is necessary to spark a turnaround, particularly if performance does not improve.
- Belief in the Team: Despite the struggles, a significant portion of the fanbase remains optimistic about the Mets’ ability to bounce back.
Benefits of Sticking to a Set Lineup
While the decision to remain consistent amid struggles can be risky, there are several potential benefits associated with this approach.
Long-Term Advantages
- Player Development: Allowing players to navigate through tough patches can enhance their skills and mental toughness.
- Team Cohesion: Familiarity breeds comfort, leading to improved trust and communication on the field.
- Strategic Stability: A stable lineup can help the team maintain focus and reduce distractions caused by frequent changes.
Practical Tips for Fans Supporting the Mets
As the series progresses, here are some practical tips for fans looking to support the Mets during this challenging time:
- Stay Positive: Encourage players on social media and attend games to show support.
- Engage in Discussions: Participate in fan forums and discussions to share insights and strategies.
- Educate Yourself: Understanding the game and strategies can deepen your appreciation for the team’s efforts.
Case Studies from Past NLCS Comebacks
Historically, several teams have faced similar challenges in the NLCS but have managed to turn the tide and advance to the World Series. Here are a few notable examples:
| Year | Team | Series Situation | Outcome |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2016 | Chicago Cubs | Down 1-3 | Won Series 4-3 |
| 2004 | Boston Red Sox | Down 0-3 | Won Series 4-3 |
| 1996 | New York Yankees | Down 0-2 | Won Series 4-2 |
First-Hand Experiences from Players
Players often share their thoughts on how they cope with the pressures of postseason play. Here’s what some have said about handling adversity:
“Every at-bat is a chance to turn things around. It’s about staying focused and trusting your training.” – Francisco Lindor
“We know we have what it takes. We just need to find our groove and trust each other.” – Pete Alonso
Looking Ahead: What to Expect in Game 4
As the Mets gear up for Game 4, fans can expect an intense showdown. The pressure is mounting, and the team’s performance will be critical. Here are some factors that could influence the outcome:
Potential Game-Changing Elements
- Pitching Matchup: The starting pitcher’s performance will greatly impact the game.
- Offensive Strategy: Look for potential adjustments in offensive strategies to generate runs.
- Defensive Plays: Strong defensive performances will be crucial to minimize errors and prevent runs.
As the Mets continue to battle in the NLCS, the resilience of Carlos Mendoza and his lineup will be put to the ultimate test. Fans remain hopeful that Game 4 will be the turning point in this high-stakes series.
