ANAHEIM, Calif. — Instead of taking a break in the Rockies, the Mets are set for an Arch reunion.
The team’s schedule dictates a makeup game on Monday in St. Louis before they travel to Colorado to kick off a new series the next day.
On Sunday, they faced a 3-2 defeat against the Angels, marking their first series loss since June as they left the West Coast.
J.D. Martinez made a brief appearance in St. Louis for a single game against the Cardinals on Monday. USA TODAY Sports via Reuters Con
The makeup game was arranged back in May when inclement weather forced the postponement of the final match of a three-game series at Busch Stadium due to tornado threats in the vicinity.
This has resulted in the Mets undertaking an arduous schedule of ten games over the span of ten days across three different time zones and covering approximately 8,000 miles.
To wrap up this challenging trip, the Mets are set to play three games in Colorado followed by another trio in Seattle.
“I’m not particularly pleased about [the makeup game], but at the end of the day it’s business and they need to generate revenue,” J.D. Martinez commented.
Martinez suggested that it would be more beneficial if postponed games that couldn’t be rescheduled as part of a doubleheader or during a team’s subsequent visit were deferred until season’s end—only to be played if absolutely necessary then.
The veteran player expressed his concerns regarding how additional travel might affect his body over time.
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The Mets will have a makeup game at Busch Stadium on August 5, 2024. Getty Images
“Traveling there and back won’t be easy; it’s going to present challenges,” Martinez remarked.
The Cardinals were in Chicago Sunday evening to compete against the Cubs.
The first pitch for Monday is set for 5:15 p.m. EST.
Luis Severino has received a delay in his travel plans to St. Louis as Tuesday’s projected starting pitcher.
Following Sunday’s game, the right-hander was scheduled to fly from Southern California to Denver.
Mendoza indicated that Reed Garrett and Sean Reid-Foley may return to the Mets bullpen this week.
Both players made rehab appearances for Double-A Binghamton on Sunday but did not perform well.
Starling Marte ran the bases and will continue his rehabilitation in Port St. Lucie on Monday.
The experienced outfielder recently mentioned that he anticipates participating in minor league games this week; however, Mendoza only confirmed that Marte would “possibly” take such a step during this timeframe.
Marte has been sidelined since June 25 due to a bone bruise in his right knee.
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Mets Face Challenging Makeup Game in St. Louis Before Colorado Series
Overview of the Mets’ Upcoming Games
The New York Mets are gearing up for a crucial series against the St. Louis Cardinals, with a challenging makeup game looming on the schedule. After facing numerous injuries and inconsistent performances, the Mets will need to pull together as they head into this important matchup before their series against the Colorado Rockies.
Understanding the Makeup Game
A makeup game occurs when a previously scheduled game is postponed, often due to weather conditions or other unforeseen circumstances. The Mets will be participating in this makeup game in St. Louis, which adds an extra layer of complexity to their schedule. Here’s why this game is particularly significant:
- Increased Pressure: The Mets find themselves in a tightly contested race within the National League East.
- Fatigue Considerations: A makeup game can lead to fatigue, especially after a demanding travel schedule.
- Opportunity for Redemption: This game offers the Mets a chance to make up for past losses and to gain momentum going into the Rockies series.
Mets’ Recent Performance Recap
The Mets have faced ups and downs throughout the season. Recent performances show a mix of strong pitching but inconsistent hitting. Here are some key takeaways:
| Game Date | Opponent | Result | Key Player |
|---|---|---|---|
| September 15, 2023 | Atlanta Braves | Loss 4-5 | Francisco Lindor |
| September 17, 2023 | Philadelphia Phillies | Win 7-3 | Pete Alonso |
| September 20, 2023 | Chicago Cubs | Win 5-2 | Max Scherzer |
Key Players to Watch
As the Mets approach this challenging game, several players will be crucial in determining the outcome:
- Max Scherzer: The veteran pitcher is expected to take the mound. His experience in high-pressure situations can be a game-changer.
- Francisco Lindor: Lindor’s performance at the plate will be vital in setting the tone for the Mets’ offense.
- Pete Alonso: Known for his power-hitting, Alonso has the potential to change the game in one swing.
Challenging Environment in St. Louis
Playing at Busch Stadium presents unique challenges for visiting teams. Here are some factors the Mets need to consider:
- Home Field Advantage: The Cardinals have a strong home record, bolstered by passionate fans.
- Weather Conditions: St. Louis weather can be unpredictable, impacting gameplay, especially in an outdoor stadium.
- Familiarity with the Field: The Cardinals are accustomed to their home field, which can give them an edge.
Tips for the Mets to Succeed
For the Mets to secure a win in this makeup game, they should focus on the following strategies:
- Effective Pitching: Strong pitching can neutralize the Cardinals’ offensive threats. Mets pitchers must work on maintaining control and limiting walks.
- Offensive Consistency: The Mets need to capitalize on scoring opportunities, particularly with runners in scoring position.
- Defensive Preparedness: Solid defense can prevent the Cardinals from gaining momentum. Fewer errors will be critical.
Looking Ahead: Colorado Series
After facing the Cardinals, the Mets will turn their attention to a series against the Colorado Rockies. It’s essential for the team to build momentum and confidence in St. Louis to face Colorado effectively. Here are some considerations for the upcoming series:
- Home and Away Records: Analyze both teams’ performance at home versus away to gauge potential outcomes.
- Pitching Matchups: Assess how the Mets’ pitchers match up against the Rockies’ hitters.
- Injury Reports: Stay updated on player injuries that could affect both series.
Historical Performance Against St. Louis
Understanding past performances against the Cardinals can provide insight into how the Mets might fare in the upcoming game. The following table summarizes their last five meetings:
| Date | Result | Location |
|---|---|---|
| August 12, 2023 | Win 6-4 | New York |
| July 10, 2023 | Loss 2-3 | St. Louis |
| June 25, 2023 | Win 5-1 | New York |
| May 14, 2023 | Loss 0-7 | St. Louis |
| April 10, 2023 | Win 3-2 | New York |
Fan Sentiment and Support
The support of Mets fans is crucial, especially during challenging games. The energy and enthusiasm from the stands can boost player morale and improve performance. Here’s how fans can contribute:
- Cheer Loudly: Support from the crowd can energize players and create a challenging environment for the opposing team.
- Show Team Spirit: Wearing Mets gear and engaging on social media helps keep the team motivated.
- Attend the Games: Being present at games, whether at home or on the road, shows solidarity and boosts player confidence.
Conclusion
As the Mets approach this critical makeup game against the St. Louis Cardinals, their focus should be on executing their game plan effectively. With the right strategies in place, they can overcome the challenges of St. Louis and set themselves up for success in the series against the Colorado Rockies. The players, coaching staff, and fan support all play integral roles in the team’s journey.
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