Luis Rojas Has Yet to Commit to Matz’s Next Start
In his pregame conference with the media before Sunday’s afternoon game against the Phils, manager Luis Rojas was asked once again about Steven Matz‘s rough outing the previous night – the third straight poor start for the left-hander.
One particular question focused on whether or not the Mets’ No. 2 guy will be taking the mound next go-around.
Based on his response, it doesn’t seem as if the first-year skipper is ready to explicitly commit to Matz making the start.
“We haven’t spoke to Matz yet or anyone about the particular start yesterday and break it down for him,” Rojas told reporters. “Last night was another tough outing, something that we definitely want to break down.”
After acknowledging Matz’s messy night, he followed those comments with more ambiguous ones, particularly when it comes to Matz’s next turn in the rotation.
“As a staff, we spoke a little bit, but once we address Matz, we talk to Matz, we can definitely share with you guys where Matz is standing.”
Thus, it appears that Rojas is now shying away from going all in on the left-hander. As previously mentioned, Matz’s season hasn’t gone the way he’d like thus far; in five starts (23 IP), Matz has given up 30 hits, 23 runs (all earned), nine homeruns (yikes), and six walks. His ERA currently sits at a frightening 9.00.
Anthony DiComo of MLB.com followed Rojas’ presser with this tweet, included below, that presents a stark outlook on the Mets’ rotation if Matz’s next outing is truly in jeopardy.
Luis Rojas is not committing to Steven Matz for his next start.
Right now, the rotation is Robert Gsellman tomorrow and David Peterson on Tuesday, and then a bunch of TBAs.
— Anthony DiComo (@AnthonyDiComo) August 16, 2020
Double yikes.
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