The Mets need a ton more from these 3 players to have a shot at the playoffs

The New York Mets have had some disappointing performances in the first half, both as a team and as individuals. If some of these players step up, that could have a massive impact on the team’s performance in the second half.

Mets we need to see more from #1: Adam Ottavino

Adam Ottavino was one of the best relievers in baseball last year, but the righty has taken a massive step back in 2023. In 36 innings pitched, he’s allowed 26 hits, 17 walks, 15 earned runs, and struck out 38 batters. His ERA is 3.72, his FIP is 4.79, his WHIP is 1.18, and his ERA+ 112.

There are three reasons for concern with Ottavino. The first one is that his walk problems have come back. Last year his walk rate was 6.2% and his BB/9 was 2.2, this year both have basically doubled. His walk rate is 11.1% and his BB/9 is 4.2. He only walked 16 batters in all of 2022, but he’s already walked 17 batters at the midpoint of this season. He’s also allowed the same number of earned runs this year (15) as he did all of last year.

The second cause for concern is his FIP being so much higher than his ERA. Basically that means he’s had some luck in the first half, and also the Mets’ defense has helped him out. Walking more batters, striking out fewer, and knowing that your luck will turn is not a recipe for success in the second half.

Lastly, the third cause for concern is that he’s struggled against good teams. Against teams with winning percentages of .500 or better, he’s got a 4.24 ERA, 1.24 WHIP, and he’s allowed 11 of his 15 earned runs. It’s hard to trust him in a late-inning role when he can’t get big outs against good opponents, especially with Edwin Diaz out.