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On Thursday, the Mets continued to stay competitive with the Braves by securing their fourth consecutive victory, showcasing a strong offensive performance.
For the second time this week, Cristopher Sanchez of the Phillies is set to face David Peterson.
Both pitchers delivered stellar performances in their previous matchup on Sunday in Philadelphia.
Sanchez yielded merely six hits and one earned run over seven innings, while Peterson permitted only four hits and one earned run across 7 1/3 innings.
These outings are particularly noteworthy given how well both teams have performed against left-handed pitchers this season.
Phillies vs. Mets odds
| Team | Moneyline | Run line | Total |
|---|---|---|---|
Odds via BetMGM
Phillies vs. Mets prediction
Since August 1, the Mets have recorded the third-best wRC+ of 128 against left-handed pitchers, ranking second in the overall season statistics.
The absence of Francisco Lindor, who has an .879 OPS against lefties, is certainly felt. However, Luisangel Acuna’s exceptional performance has somewhat alleviated that impact, possibly putting pressure on Carlos Mendoza regarding lineup decisions once Lindor returns to health.
The Phillies have compiled a wRC+ of 133 with an OPS of .836 against left-handed pitchers since the All-Star break, leading both metrics in Major League Baseball.
Additionally, they possess the fourth-highest walk-to-strikeout ratio during this stretch and lead the league in hard-hit rate with an impressive 40.3%.
<img style="aspect-ratio:1.5;display:block" decoding="async" loading="lazy" data-modal-image="33381042" width="885" height="590" src="https://nypost.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/2/2024/09/GettyImages-2167172767.jpg?w=1024" alt="Cristopher Sanchez struck out seven and allowed one earned run in his last appearance against the Mets." class="wp-image-33381042" srcset="https://nypost.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/2/2024/09/GettyImages-2167172767.jpg?quality=75&strip=all 4078w, https://nypost.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/2/2024/09/GettyImages-2167172767.jpg?resize=300,200&quality=75&strip=all 300w, https://nypost.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/2/2024/09/GettyImages-2167172767.jpg?resize=768,512&quality=75&strip=all 768w, https://nypost.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/2/2024/09/GettyImages-2167172767.jpg?resize=1024,683&quality=75&strip=all 1024w, https://nypost.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/2/2024/09/GettyImages-2167172767.jpg?resize=1536,1024&quality=75&strip=all 1536w, https://nypost.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/2/2024/09/GettyImages-2167172767.jpg?resize=2048,1366&quality=75&strip=all 2048w, https://nypost.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/2/2024/09
Cristopher Sanchez recorded seven strikeouts while yielding just one earned run in his last appearance against the Mets. Icon Sportswire via Getty Images
Peterson has maintained impressive performance, boasting a 2.22 ERA over his previous five outings. However, his underlying statistics during this period are less remarkable, featuring an xFIP of 4.00, a hard-hit rate of 41%, and a .256 expected batting average (xBA).
During these five starts, he has achieved an average Stuff+ rating of 93 and has struck out only 6.96 batters per nine innings.
In contrast, Sanchez has achieved a 2.27 ERA over his last 31 and two-thirds innings, presenting a more robust underlying profile.
He has an xFIP of 2.74 in this timeframe and a strikeout rate of 9.66 batters per nine innings. Pitching models favor Sanchez as well, with a Stuff+ rating of 106 and a Pitching+ rating of 110.
Nevertheless, Sanchez conceded hard contact 53% of the time during Sunday’s game against the Mets and benefitted from favorable luck on balls in play, contributing to his impressive performance.
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Phillies vs. Mets Pick
This matchup showcases two top-tier pitchers, but asking two left-handed starters to contain these powerful offenses in successive games is quite challenging.
With a total set at 7.5, I believe this line shows excessive respect for the starters from Friday’s game.
Consider betting the over at odds better than -125.
Best Bet: Over 7.5 (-105, BetMGM)
Why Trust New York Post Betting
Nicholas Martin analyzes NHL, MLB, and NFL games for the New York Post. He aims to provide pertinent game insights in his articles to assist bettors in forming their own opinions. Additionally, he has achieved a remarkable gain of 180 units on verified picks in a sports betting app. You can follow Nick on X @nickm_hockey.
Phillies vs. Mets: A Pitching Duel with High Stakes and High Offense
The Rivalry: Phillies vs. Mets
The Philadelphia Phillies and New York Mets share a fierce rivalry that has produced some of the most memorable moments in MLB history. Fans eagerly anticipate each matchup, knowing they are in for a show of skill, strategy, and intensity. This season, the stakes are higher than ever as both teams vie for playoff positions in a competitive National League East division.
Pitching Matchup: Stars on the Mound
At the heart of this rivalry lies the pitching duel. Both teams boast formidable rotations capable of dominating games. Let’s take a closer look at the key pitchers to watch in the upcoming series:
- Aces of the Staff:
- Phillies: Zack Wheeler – Known for his blazing fastball and devastating slider, Wheeler has been a reliable ace for the Phillies. This season, he has an impressive strikeout rate and is crucial in tight games.
- Mets: Max Scherzer – A future Hall of Famer, Scherzer’s experience and competitive spirit make him a nightmare for opposing batters. His ability to pitch deep into games often leads to Mets victories.
Offensive Firepower: Can They Keep Up?
While pitching is crucial, offense plays an equally important role in determining the outcome of games. Both the Phillies and Mets have potent lineups filled with sluggers capable of changing the game with one swing. Here’s how their offenses stack up:
| Team | Key Batters | 2023 Home Runs | Batting Average |
|---|---|---|---|
| Phillies | Bryce Harper, Kyle Schwarber | 230 | .255 |
| Mets | Francisco Lindor, Pete Alonso | 220 | .263 |
Phillies Offense: Power and Patience
The Phillies’ lineup is known for its power-hitting capability. Players like Bryce Harper and Kyle Schwarber can change the tide of the game. Their ability to draw walks adds another layer of pressure on opposing pitchers, making the Phillies a daunting team to face.
Mets Offense: Versatile and Dangerous
The Mets counter with a dynamic and versatile lineup. Francisco Lindor and Pete Alonso not only provide power but also the ability to hit for average. This balance makes the Mets an offensive juggernaut capable of producing runs in various ways.
Key Matchup: Bullpen Performance
While starting pitching sets the tone, bullpens can ultimately dictate the outcome of close games. Here’s how the bullpens of both teams compare:
- Phillies Bullpen:
- Strengths: Improved depth with the addition of key relievers.
- Challenges: Inconsistency has plagued late-game performances at times.
- Mets Bullpen:
- Strengths: Strong strikeout rates and ability to hold leads.
- Challenges: Injuries have impacted reliability throughout the season.
Strategies for Success
For both teams to emerge victorious, they must adhere to specific strategies that exploit their strengths and minimize weaknesses:
For the Phillies:
- Leverage Power Hitting: Utilize the long ball to create early leads.
- Good Base Running: Take advantage of opposing pitchers’ weaknesses on the basepaths.
- Limit Free Passes: Control the strike zone to avoid giving up walks and free bases.
For the Mets:
- Defensive Solidarity: Ensure strong performance from the infield to support pitching.
- Consistent Batting: Focus on situational hitting to drive in runs with runners in scoring position.
- Maximize Pitch Count: Force opposing pitchers to throw more pitches and reach the bullpen early.
Fan Experience: Game Day Atmosphere
The atmosphere during a Phillies vs. Mets game is electric, with passionate fans from both sides. Here’s what you can expect:
- Tailgating: Fans often arrive early to enjoy tailgating, showcasing team pride and camaraderie.
- Cheer and Chants: Expect lively chants and cheers, creating an intense environment.
- Merchandise: Both teams have a wide array of merchandise to show support, from jerseys to caps.
Practical Tips for Attending the Game
If you’re planning to attend a Phillies vs. Mets game, here are some practical tips to enhance your experience:
- Arrive Early: Beat the traffic and find parking before the crowds arrive.
- Dress for the Weather: Check the forecast and dress appropriately to stay comfortable.
- Stay Hydrated: Drink plenty of water, especially during hot summer games.
- Explore the Stadium: Take time to check out the food vendors and merchandise stands.
Case Study: Last Season’s Decisive Matchup
Last season, a decisive matchup between the two teams showcased the intensity of the rivalry. The game ended in a thrilling extra innings win for the Mets, highlighted by a walk-off home run from Pete Alonso. This game not only exemplified the high stakes involved but also the high-octane offense both teams are capable of producing.
First-Hand Experience: A Fan’s Perspective
As a devoted fan of the Phillies, attending the game against the Mets last summer was a highlight. The atmosphere was electric, filled with anticipation and energy. Witnessing my team battle it out with their rivals was thrilling, and the camaraderie among fans made the experience unforgettable. The intensity of each pitch and swing was palpable; moments like these are what make baseball truly special.
Conclusion: The Legacy Continues
The rivalry between the Phillies and Mets has stood the test of time, delivering unforgettable moments and high-stakes games. As this season unfolds, fans are eager to see how each team’s pitching and offensive strategies will impact the fight for playoff spots. Whether you’re a die-hard supporter or a casual fan, the Phillies vs. Mets matchup is a must-watch event in the world of baseball.
