Justin Verlander helped ease some of the fear last night

After an early run for the Cincinnati Reds, it looked like maybe Justin Verlander was about to let us down all over again. It was smooth sailing thereafter. In the 2-1 New York Mets victory, Verlander surrendered just two hits.

Like a splash of water in the face following some midsummer yardwork or how everyone in commercials reacts whenever they put a piece of gum in their mouth, it was a refreshing starting pitching performance. It wasn’t an ideal win for the Mets. Their last two victories have been by the score of 1-0 and now 2-1.

Mets ace Justin Verlander eased tension for a night with the pitching but the hitting stayed quiet

What’s really weighing down the Mets right now is the fear of a failed starting pitching staff and offense. Neither has come close to expectations. Verlander’s strong second-outing could’ve just as easily had the same result as his debut. The Mets now rank 21st in runs scored with a starting pitching staff owning the 23rd ranked ERA.

This week hasn’t been a very polite one toward Mets fans. Max Scherzer is falling apart in every way possible. Our trust in him is shrinking and we’re not even sure when we’ll see him next.

It doesn’t get much easier for the Mets who, after the Reds and Washington Nationals, host the Tampa Bay Rays and Cleveland Guardians. We know how things with the Rays can go. With the Guardians, which Mets fan doesn’t fear a series that helps wake them up in full?

Today, at least until the early afternoon finale against the Reds, we don’t have to worry about the starting pitching staff. The team is a game under .500 and one amazingly hot week away from being able to hit the Atlanta Braves from behind with a slap to the back of the head.

The trouble is that last week was meant to be that stretch. It never happened.

You may still not feel all that great about the Mets starting rotation, and you’re not wrong if your emotions are explaining why you shouldn’t get invested. Fortunately, Verlander has pushed aside the fear of not having either stud ace at his best. He has stepped up in two consecutive starts now and our more relaxed pelvic floor muscles couldn’t be more thankful.