Having clinched a playoff spot with a victory in the first of two games played today at Truist Park, the Mets decided to sit Luis Severino to save him for the Wild Card series. In his place, the Mets recalled Joey Lucchesi to make the start. In a corresponding move, the Mets optionned left-handed relief pitcher Alex Young.
Lucchesi made just one poor start for the Mets back in May, but made 27 starts for Triple-A Syracuse this season. His stuff is clearly not where he or the Mets would want it to be, but he is saving the Mets’ front line starters for playoff appearances and, hopefully, giving most of the key members of the bullpen a day off as well.