Edwin Diaz’s first 4 pitches within the ninth have been fastballs that missed the strike zone.
However simply when it appeared the Mets nearer may be reverting again to the difficulty he present in back-to-back video games on the current highway journey, Diaz got here again and received the ultimate three outs of Wednesday’s 8-3 win over the Crimson Sox.
And he completed it with three straight fastballs that have been clocked over 100 mph.
on Sept. 4, 2024. Charles Wenzelberg / New York Put up
“I’ve that in my again pocket,’’ Diaz mentioned of the added velocity on his strikeout of Romy Gonzalez that completed the sport — and a seventh-straight Mets win.
With the Mets nonetheless chasing the Braves for the ultimate NL wild-card spot, they are going to nearly definitely proceed to lean closely on Diaz, who has largely pitched nicely since mid-June earlier than blowing back-to-back save alternatives, first in San Diego on Aug. 25 then Arizona three days later.
Since then, Diaz has allowed one baserunner in 4 innings — the leadoff stroll to Triston Casas on Wednesday — and whiffed 9 batters, together with two extra Wednesday.
It’s as many strikeouts as Diaz has had in a four-appearance stretch this season.
His strikeout fee remains to be not near what it was throughout his otherworldly 2022 season, however Diaz’s potential to complete hitters off is what helps set him other than different closers and what the Mets consider can get them to the postseason.
“I believe he’s locked in,’’ Carlos Mendoza mentioned. “It’s ‘go-time’ mentality. He received damage by a pair sliders on the highway journey and after that, stayed on the assault.”
He saved that up Wednesday.
“Watching him hit 101 [mph], he’s aggressive,’’ Mendoza mentioned. “It’s a very good signal.”
One they’ll must see extra of within the remaining weeks of the season in the event that they wish to get to the playoffs.
Diaz expects loads of work earlier than the top of September.
“It’s actually robust,’’ Diaz mentioned. “We’re actually near the playoffs, so each recreation counts as a more in-depth, so I’ve to do my job.”
