Mets ask Jacob deGrom to extend series vs. Padres

NEW YORK -- Even after watching his team's three best starting pitchers struggle during four costly defeats over the past eight days, New York Mets manager Buck Showalter remains confident Jacob deGrom will be able to turn around the club's fortunes.

With the Mets on the brink of a swift elimination from the playoffs, Showalter has little alternative.

The Mets will look to avoid being swept by the San Diego Padres in a