The much-anticipated debut for the New York Mets’ newest starting pitcher, Marcus Stroman, is expected to occur this weekend.
Marcus Stroman’s acquisition by the New York Mets shocked the world, and now everyone is just waiting to see the Stro-Show take the mound for his new team.
By the sounds of it, the Mets are planning to have Stroman start the second-game of their three-game series against the Pittsburgh Pirates.
The Mets have Marcus Stroman lined up to make his debut Saturday in Pittsburgh, in what would have been Jason Vargas' rotation spot.
— Anthony DiComo (@AnthonyDiComo) July 30, 2019
With the trade for Stroman, the Mets were forced to create an open spot within their starting rotation. Which meant that one of Jason Vargas or Zack Wheeler had to be moved. So, Stroman will be pitching on nine days rest when he makes his debut for the Mets.
Stroman made his last start for the Blue Jays on July 24 against the Cleveland Indians. In that start, the 28-year-old went seven innings and allowed just one run on five hits. Over his last three starts, Stroman has pitched six innings or more and combined for 18 strikeouts as well.
The Medford-native has only two career appearances against the Pirates. But, Stroman does own a 1.04 ERA, 0.692 WHIP, 4.2 SO/9, .511 OPP OPS through 8.2 innings.
While it doesn’t appear like the Mets are going to make a comeback into the NL Wild Card race. However, by keeping Noah Syndergaard they now have one of the best rotations heading into the final two months of the season, and potentially next year as well.
Stroman’s current numbers suggest that he’ll be positioned perfectly behind Jacob deGrom and Syndergaard next season. He is currently pitching with a 2.96 ERA, 1.227 WHIP, 0.7 HR/9, 2.5 BB/9, 7.1 SO/9, 152 ERA+ through 21 starts this season.
By acquiring Stroman, the Mets let the world know that they currently have no interest in undergoing any kind of rebuild. Which also dates back to what Mets general manager Brodie Van Wagenen stated in his speech before he was hired.
