Extracted Statements
Edwin Díaz made a triumphant return on Thursday night, pitching a flawless inning.
Díaz set the stage for a remarkable comeback win against the Miami Marlins.
Having been sidelined since late May due to a right shoulder impingement, Díaz's return was highly anticipated. In Thursday's game, he delivered a standout performance, boosting the Mets' bullpen confidence.
Triumphant Return to the Mound
Díaz took to the mound in the ninth inning with the Mets trailing 2-1. Proving his resilience, he induced a ground out from Tim Anderson, struck out Otto López, and generated another ground out from Christian Bethancourt. His flawless inning left fans in awe as he threw 11 of his 15 pitches for strikes. Díaz's fastball, which averaged 98.4 mph, displayed an increase of 1.4 mph over his seasonal average, according to Statcast. This boost in velocity signals his return to peak physical condition.
Setting the Stage for Victory
Díaz’s performance was crucial in keeping the Mets within striking distance. J.D. Martinez launched a dramatic walk-off two-run home run, sealing a thrilling victory for the Mets. This win brought the Mets' record for the year to 30-37 and showed glimmers of resurgence following a difficult May.
The Struggles Before the Comeback
Entering Thursday’s game, Díaz had a 5.40 ERA and maintained a 4.29 strikeout-to-walk ratio over his 20 appearances. Notably, eight of the 14 runs he allowed came during five appearances before his deactivation, during which he also blew three save opportunities. Despite these struggles, Mets Manager Carlos Mendoza remained unwavering in his support for Díaz. His flawless inning on Thursday indicates that he is back to his dominant self.
Signs of a Resurgence
After a disappointing 9-19 record in May, the Mets have started June with a 6-4 record. The offense and pitching staff must maintain this level of play to climb the standings. Díaz’s health and effectiveness could be the determining factors in the Mets' fortunes this season. The team hopes that this latest victory might spark a sustained run of success.
Extracted Quotes
"For us to make a run at this, we're going to need Díaz to be Edwin Díaz," said a member of the Mets' management team, highlighting the critical role the star closer plays in the team's aspirations.
"We've been trying to piece it together for the past month or so," another insider revealed, stressing the challenges the team has faced in Díaz’s absence.
"He feels good physically and mentally, so we’re comfortable with him going back to the closer spot," added Manager Carlos Mendoza, expressing his confidence in Díaz's readiness to return to his crucial role.