Tidwell Dominates, Offense Explodes in Win Against Rays

One day after Brandan Sproat pitched well in spring training action for the New York Mets, it was Balde Tidwell’s turn to show the Mets what they could have in him.

On Saturday, he displayed his potential against the Tampa Bay Rays as New York cruised to a 10-1 win. Not only did Tidwell impress, but Baty continued his hot start, and Jose Siri showed his power and good defense. A 7-run 5th inning by the Mets, highlighted by 5 walks, put this one away. Unfortunately for the Mets, they did not come out of this game unscathed after an injury to Luisangel Acuña.

Tidwell Blazes Past Rays

In two innings of work, Blade Tidwell showed his power and consistency. He struck out five batters and allowed no hits. He hit 99 MPH multiple times on the afternoon, and all his strikeouts were against major leaguers. The second inning was where Tidwell shined. He pitched an immaculate inning and struck out the side on 9 pitches. He got each of them swinging. It was the kind of performance that the Mets liked to see, and they will certainly keep an eye on him as spring progresses and into the season. 

Siri Homers Again

When the Mets acquired him, Siri was known for a couple of things. The positives were his speed, good defense, and power, but it came with a low batting average and inconsistency at the plate. So far in this exhibition season, New York has seen his power, and he did it again on Saturday with a three-run home run that was a no-doubter, and it gave the Mets an early 3-0 lead. It was his second home run of the spring. Before his home run, Siri also made a diving catch to rob Yandy Díaz of a hit. If Siri can play like that, he and Tyrone Taylor could be a good platoon in center field. 

Baty Notches Another Hit

It’s been a hot start for the former Mets’ top prospect, who is battling it out for that last infield depth spot. With Nick Madrigal‘s injury, Baty’s door is even more open now. He was able to get another hit on Saturday while scoring a run and walked. His spring training batting average is now .538, with an OPS of 1.648.

Luisangel Acuña Leaves Game With Injury

Speaking of the competition on the infield, there was another injury. In his first at-bat of the afternoon, Luisangel Acuña got hit by the pitch on his left arm. He went to the ground in a lot of pain. After he was checked up on, he stayed in the game, went to first base and then stole second base. After the inning was over, however, the Mets took him out for Jett Williams. 

Carlos Mendoza informed the media after the game that Acuña was okay after leaving the game. 

Player Of The Game: Blade Tidwell

Tidwell’s immaculate inning, where he struck out the side, was very impressive and will be the talk inside Mets camp for the day. New York needs to see some of their young pitchers, like Tidwell and Sproat, play well now that their starting pitching depth is being tested with injuries to Sean Manaea and Frankie Montas. Their performances these last two days are encouraging signs for New York. 

On Deck:

The Mets continue their road trip as they head to Fort Myers to play the Boston Red Sox. Paul Blackburn, another pitcher seeking to step up after the injuries to Manaea and Montas, will start for the Mets. Walker Buehler will take the mound for the Red Sox. First pitch is at 1:05 pm EST and will be broadcast on Audacy Mets Radio WHSQ 880AM.

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