The New York Mets are gearing up for a critical series against the Milwaukee Brewers on Friday night, as they chase a wildcard spot in the National League. The Brewers have already secured the AL Central Division title and will host a wildcard round series next week. For the Mets, this series is just one part of a tight race, as they face a pivotal doubleheader against the Braves on Monday, which could determine their playoff hopes. The matchup features Mets’ left-hander Sean Manaea (12-5, 3.29) opposing Brewers’ right-hander Frankie Montas (7-11, 4.85). First pitch is at 8:10 pm EST.
Mets Rely on Manaea’s Momentum
The New York Mets head into Milwaukee with hopes of maintaining their lead for one of the final two wildcard positions. Recent weather disruptions in Atlanta, caused by a tropical storm, resulted in the cancellation of their last two games against the Braves. After losing the series opener 5-1, the Mets now find themselves clinging to a one-game advantage over the Braves. The two teams are set to meet again on October 1st for a crucial doubleheader.
The Mets are counting on Sean Manaea to continue his strong performance in the series opener. With a record of 12-5 in 31 starts this season, including 15 quality outings, Manaea has been instrumental for the team. The Mets have triumphed in 11 of his last 12 starts, and he has pitched seven innings three times in his last five outings, allowing only nine earned runs. Throughout the season, he has given up just 127 hits in 178 innings and has struck out 183 batters while walking 61.
Key Injuries: SP Kodai Senga, RP Dedniel Nunez, 2B Jeff McNeil, and RP Sean Reid-Foley are unavailable.
Brewers Hand Montas the Ball
The Milwaukee Brewers have already secured their place in the wildcard round, eagerly anticipating their opponent for the upcoming three-game series. With over 90 wins this season, they are using the weekend series against the Mets to fine-tune their pitching lineup. Despite recent struggles, having lost three of their last five games before Thursday’s finale against the Pirates, the Brewers managed a win with starter Aaron Civale delivering six solid innings in a 5-2 victory.
On Friday night, the Brewers will send out Frankie Montas, a right-handed pitcher acquired at the trade deadline from the Reds. Montas has made 29 starts this season, securing nine quality starts. With a record of 7-11 and an ERA of 4.85, he has allowed 138 hits in 146.2 innings while striking out 142 and walking 63. Montas is looking to bounce back after a recent start where he struggled, but he has demonstrated the ability to strike out eight or more batters in three of his last five appearances.
Key Injuries: RP Rob Zastryzny and LF Christian Yelich are sidelined.
Best Bets for New York Mets vs. Milwaukee Brewers
The Mets are in a favorable position with Sean Manaea on the mound for game one. The team has won each of his last six starts and 11 of his last 12 outings. Manaea’s recent performances show his capability to pitch deep into games, having gone seven innings in three of his last five. Meanwhile, Montas is coming off a challenging performance that saw him exit early, and the Brewers may manage his pitch count heading into the playoffs. With their playoff hopes on the line, the Mets are expected to play with urgency and determination on Friday night.
