Here are five things to watch and predictions as the Mets and Yankees play the three-game Subway Series at Citi Field starting on Friday at 3:10 p.m. on SNY.
5 things to watch
Can the Mets' offense find consistency?
Despite a strong top five in the lineup that features Francisco Lindor, Brandon Nimmo, Juan Soto, Pete Alonso, and Jeff McNeil, the Mets' offense has been hit or miss recently, including during last weekend's three-game sweep at the hands of the Pirates (when they scored a total of four runs) and their Game 1 doubleheader loss to the Brewers on Wednesday (when they mustered only two hits).
The two main issues have been the bottom of the lineup and overall struggles with runners in scoring position.
When it comes to the six-through-nine hitters, the Mets have been getting better at-bats from Ronny Mauricio lately, which has helped. Meanwhile, Mark Vientos recently returned, which lengthened the order.
If Vientos can get hot, it would be a boon for the rest of the lineup.
Meanwhile, a reinforcement should be coming soon in the form of Jesse Winker, who could return from the IL at some point next week.
Who will start on Friday?
Paul Blackburn was slated to start Friday's series-opener, but he just landed on the IL due to a shoulder impingement.
The right-hander had been ineffective lately.
He allowed four runs (three earned) in 3.2 innings against the Braves on June 18, surrendered three runs in 4.2 innings against Atlanta on June 23, and gave up three runs on six hits in his only inning of work against the Pirates on June 28 — during a game that was interrupted by a lengthy rain delay.
It is conceivable that the Mets will use Justin Hagenman to start on Friday.
Hagenman made his major league debut on April 16 against the Twins, tossing 3.1 innings of one-run ball while allowing three hits, walking none, and striking out four. He also pitched on June 19 against the Braves, going 2.2 scoreless innings.
The Mets should get some rotation help soon, with the returns of Sean Manaea (likely after one more rehab start) and Kodai Senga (who is about to begin a rehab assignment).
The Mets also need a starter for Sunday
Sunday's start was supposed to go to Clay Holmes, but Tuesday's rainout and Wednesday's doubleheader pushed Holmes to Wednesday — meaning New York now needs a starter for the finale of the series.
Their two options appear to be going with an opener/bullpen game or calling someone up from Triple-A Syracuse.