Edwin Díaz's Triumphant Return Sparks Mets' Comeback Victory
Edwin Díaz’s Flawless Inning
Edwin Díaz made a triumphant return on Thursday night, pitching a flawless inning that set the stage for a remarkable comeback win against the Miami Marlins. Díaz, who had been sidelined since late May due to a right shoulder impingement, delivered a standout performance that boosted the Mets' bullpen morale.
Taking to the mound in the ninth inning with the Mets trailing 2-1, Díaz induced a ground out from Tim Anderson, struck out Otto López, and generated another ground out from Christian Bethancourt. He threw 11 of his 15 pitches for strikes, with his fastball averaging an impressive 98.4 mph. According to Statcast, his fastball increased by 1.4 mph over his seasonal average, signaling his return to peak physical condition.
A Dramatic Walk-Off
In a thrilling end to the game, J.D. Martinez launched a dramatic walk-off two-run home run that sealed the victory for the Mets. This win brought the Mets to a 30-37 record for the year, showing glimmers of resurgence after a difficult May. The team had gone 9-19 in May but started June with a more promising 6-4 record.
Díaz’s Performance Indicators
Díaz entered Thursday’s game with a 5.40 ERA and had maintained a 4.29 strikeout-to-walk ratio over his 20 appearances. Eight of the 14 runs he allowed came during five appearances before his deactivation, during which he also blew three save opportunities. Despite these challenges, Mets Manager Carlos Mendoza has been unwavering in his support for Díaz. His flawless inning on Thursday suggests he is back to his dominant self.
"For us to make a run at this, we're going to need Díaz to be Edwin Díaz," said Mendoza. "We've been trying to piece it together for the past month or so. He feels good physically and mentally, so we’re comfortable with him going back to the closer spot."
Looking Ahead
The Mets' offense and pitching staff must maintain this level of play to climb the standings. The team's hopes for a sustained run of success rest heavily on Díaz’s health and effectiveness. If Thursday’s performance is any indication, Díaz’s return to form could be the catalyst for a turnaround in the Mets' season.
Díaz’s form signals his return to peak physical condition, and the team hopes this victory might spark a sustained run of success. As the season progresses, all eyes will be on Díaz and the Mets as they aim to capitalize on this momentum and make a push for the playoffs.