Rafael Ortega Walks It Off Behind Strong Start By David Peterson
Rafael Ortega. Mandatory Credit: Wendell Cruz-USA TODAY Sports
In a classic pitcher’s duel Sunday afternoon, the New York Mets (60-71) were able to avoid a three-game sweep at the hands of the Los Angeles Angels via some late-game heroics. After a starling performance by starting pitcher David Peterson, and some back and forth in the late innings, Rafael Ortega walked it off for the Mets in the ninth inning. New York was able to escape with a 3-2 victory at Citi Field.
It was another very encouraging outing for Peterson. The 27-year-old turned in the longest outing of his season. He threw seven innings, allowing only three hits and one run. Peterson also struck out eight in the contest.
Since returning to the big leagues at the end of June, Peterson has thrown 45 1/3 innings posting a strong 2.79 ERA. He has also struck out 46 over this time. It is apparent Peterson has found his control since being recalled and as a result has been a far better pitcher.
His performances have not gone unnoticed by his manager either. After Sunday’s win, Buck Showalter said, “He very quietly has been real competitive for us and that was the key to this outing.”
Offensively, Pete Alonso led the way with a two-hit game. He drove in the game-tying run in the eighth inning after New York got behind late. The dagger, and game-winning run, came via a Rafael Ortega single in the ninth inning. This after New York loaded the bases courtesy of a hit by pitch, single, then walk.
With the victory, New York snaps a four-game losing streak. They now own a 60-71 record.
Statistic of the Game: 0-for-4
New York got the full Shohei Ohtani experience over the weekend. Ohtani was 3-for-5 with three extra-base hits, five walks, and two stolen bases entering Sunday’s contest. It was not a coincidence that the Angels took the first two games of the series.
Well, on Sunday, the Mets stifled Ohtani, striking him out twice en route to a 0-for-4 performance. Coincidentally, the Mets were able to take their first, and only game of the series.
Peterson spoke specifically about Ohtani and his approach to limiting him after the game, “Mix it up, move it around, and try to keep him off balance. He’s a good hitter and I think it was kind of just seeing where I can pitch him and let the game dictate it.”
David Peterson. Vincent Carchietta-USA TODAY Sports
Player of the Game: David Peterson
As mentioned above, Peterson was electric on Sunday. He went seven innings, the longest start of his career, and only allowed one run. His ERA, which was as high as 8.08 has dropped all the way to 5.23.
He is making a strong case to stick around, next season.
On Deck
The Mets are right back in action Monday night as they welcome in the Texas Rangers. The three-game set at Citi Field features a probable pitching matchup of Jon Gray (not confirmed by team yet) versus Tylor Megill.
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