In a crucial performance, New York Mets closer Edwin Díaz secured a two-inning save during the team’s 3-1 victory over the Kansas City Royals on July 8, 2023. Initially, Mets manager Carlos Mendoza did not plan to use Díaz for multiple innings, but circumstances dictated a change in strategy.
The game turned pivotal in the eighth inning when the Mets successfully challenged a call that ruled Royals player Bobby Witt Jr. out attempting to steal second base. Following that play, Díaz struck out Vinny Pasquantino to conclude the inning. Recognizing the moment’s significance, Mendoza approached Díaz about continuing into the ninth inning.
“With the caught stealing, he was pitch efficient and we have got the All-Star break coming up here,” Mendoza explained. “I was like, ‘If there is a time of the year where we can go multiple, today is the time.’ I checked with him after the inning and there was no hesitation.”
Díaz did not disappoint, closing out the game with a perfect ninth inning to record his 19th save in 20 chances. Mendoza had already utilized pitchers Reed Garrett and Chris Devenski earlier in the game; Garrett faced a challenging sixth inning, escaping with the tying run on third base and no outs before Devenski pitched a scoreless seventh.
With his performance against the Royals, Díaz’s earned run average (ERA) fell to 1.66. The right-hander has demonstrated elite pitching over the past two and a half months, a significant turnaround from a shaky start to the season.
“I didn’t start really well, but I found a way to pitch better and keep throwing the ball,” Díaz stated. “I am really happy about my first half.” As he prepares to represent the Mets in the upcoming All-Star Game, this will mark Díaz’s second selection, having previously been chosen in 2022.
Díaz credited his improvement to ongoing work with the pitching coaches, emphasizing the importance of routine in his training. “I have been working hard with the pitching coaches and if I do my routine always I will be good,” he said. “They keep pushing me always to keep getting better and I think I have to give the credit to them.”
This win not only highlights Díaz’s skill but also showcases Mendoza’s ability to adapt under pressure, a crucial trait as the Mets navigate a competitive season.
