New York Mets vs. Philadelphia Phillies: Preview, Predictions and Picks for May 15, 2024

Published on:
May 15, 2024 3:39 PM
On Wednesday, May 15, 2024, at 6:40 PM, the New York Mets (19-22) look to make a comeback as they face off against the division-leading Philadelphia Phillies (30-13) in Game 3 of their series at Citizens Bank Park. With the Phillies currently leading the series 2-0, the Mets will need to bring their A-game to take down their NL East rivals. Will the Phillies continue their dominant streak, or can the Mets turn the tide?
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New York Mets
Philadelphia Phillies

Mets vs Phillies starting pitchers

  • Ranger Suarez for Philadelphia Phillies
  • Joey Lucchesi for New York Mets

Mets vs Phillies game preview

In an exhilarating continuation of their series, the New York Mets and Philadelphia Phillies are set for game 3 with both teams fielding resourceful pitchers. The Mets will lean on Joey Lucchesi, who looks to make a significant impact and regain form against a potent Phillies lineup. Conversely, the Phillies counter with Ranger Suarez, a dominant force this season boasting a stellar 1.50 ERA and 55 strikeouts over 54 innings, maintaining an undefeated record in his starts. This pitching matchup sets the stage for a highly tactical game, where control and strikeout capabilities will be critical.

The New York Mets, currently fourth in the NL East, come into this game with underwhelming team statistics, highlighting areas of concern in their offensive prowess. With a total team batting average of .233, placing them 20th in the MLB, the Mets have struggled to consistently put the ball in play, often leaving runners stranded. Key players like Pete Alonso, who leads the team with 9 homers, and Brandon Nimmo, with 27 RBIs, need to spark their batting lineup to ignite any chance of overcoming the Phillies' robust defense and top-tier pitching. The Mets will also need to leverage any mistakes by the opposing pitcher, focusing on capitalizing on opportunities when they present themselves.

On the flip side, the Philadelphia Phillies enter this game ranked first in the NL East, displaying formidable team strength both on the mound and at bat. With statistics that boast being tied-9th in strikeouts and 5th in hits, coupled with ranking 2nd in runs scored at 222, the Phillies exemplify a balanced and threatening offense. The recent setback of Trea Turner to a 10-Day-IL due to a hamstring strain might pose a challenge, yet players like Bryce Harper and Alec Bohm have stepped up effectively. Harper, matching Alonso with 9 home runs, and Bohm, leading the team with 35 RBIs, will be crucial in consolidating the Phillies' offensive strategy against the Mets' pitching. The effectiveness of their approach will pivot significantly on maintaining their aggressive batting stance and exploiting the Mets' weaknesses early in the game.

Philadelphia Phillies injuries

  • Luis Ortiz (RP): 15-Day-IL
  • Yunior Marte (RP): 15-Day-IL
  • Dylan Covey (RP): 15-Day-IL
  • Michael Rucker (RP): 15-Day-IL
  • Rafael Marchan (C): 10-Day-IL

New York Mets injuries

  • Drew Smith (RP): 15-Day-IL
  • Tylor Megill (SP): 15-Day-IL
  • Cristopher Larez (SS): Suspension
  • David Peterson (SP): 60-Day-IL
  • Drew Gilbert (CF): Day-To-Day

Mets vs Phillies predictions

I'm expecting big things from Pete Alonso, who's been mashing the ball all season. I think he goes deep tonight, maybe even twice. And don't be surprised if Starling Marte swipes a few bags - he's been looking like his old self lately. Meanwhile, Jeff McNeil is due for a big game; he's been scuffling at the plate, but I think he breaks out tonight with a couple of hits. As for Joey Lucchesi, I think he pitches decently, but the Phillies' lineup is too potent - I see him giving up 3-4 runs over 5 innings.

On the Phillies' side, I think Bryce Harper is about due for a monster game - he's been getting on base all the time, but hasn't quite broken out with a huge stat line. Tonight's the night. And don't sleep on Alec Bohm, who's been quietly raking all season. I think he gets 2-3 hits, maybe with a double or a homer tossed in. Ranger Suarez has been dealing lately, and I think he keeps the Mets' offense in check - maybe 2-3 earned runs over 6 innings.

So, who wins? I think the Phillies take this one, 6-4. They just have too much firepower, and Suarez is pitching too well right now. The Mets will get some runs, but I think the Phillies' bullpen can close the door. It should be a fun one, though - these two teams always seem to play each other tough.

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