The New York Mets have made a change to their rotation, with Luis Severino, a former Yankee, not getting the opportunity to face his old team in the upcoming Subway Series. The decision was made based on matchup considerations, as Severino was moved up to start against the Chicago Cubs on Sunday instead. Mets manager Carlos Mendoza explained that they felt it was better to have Severino pitch to right-handed batters against the Cubs and save their left-handed pitchers for the Yankees series.
Severino, who signed with the Mets this offseason after spending nine years with the Yankees, has been having a strong season with a 4-2 record and a 3.52 ERA in 14 starts. He has been the Mets’ best and most consistent starter this year, bouncing back from a difficult season in 2023. Despite his success in Queens, Severino won’t have the chance to face his former team in the upcoming series. Instead, David Peterson, a left-handed pitcher, is likely to open the series against the Yankees on Tuesday, followed by Sean Manaea in the series finale on Wednesday.
The decision to adjust the rotation was made in consideration of the Yankees’ performance against right-handed and left-handed pitchers this season. The team has had a higher OPS against right-handed pitchers compared to left-handed pitchers, which influenced the Mets’ decision to shuffle their rotation. It was also important for the Mets to ensure that Severino was ready and healthy to pitch on Sunday with regular rest, which he confirmed to the team with a positive attitude, willing to do what is best for the team.
Despite not having the opportunity to face his former team, Severino has been focused on his performance and contributing to the Mets’ success this season. He has emerged as a reliable starter for the team and will look to continue his strong performance against the Cubs on Sunday. The decision to prioritize matchups against specific lineups demonstrates the strategic approach that teams take in managing their rotations and maximizing their chances of success in key series like the Subway Series.
As the Mets prepare to face the Yankees in the upcoming series, the decision to adjust their rotation has sparked discussion and speculation among fans and analysts. The impact of these strategic decisions on the outcomes of games and series is a key aspect of baseball strategy, as teams aim to put their best foot forward and optimize their chances of winning. The upcoming Subway Series will be an important test for both teams, and the Mets will be looking to continue their strong performance behind their revamped rotation and key contributors like Luis Severino.
