Alcantara Earns First Win Since '23 Despite Short Outing; Lindor Errors Hurt Mets

Alcantara's Milestone:: Sandy Alcantara secured his first MLB win since September 3, 2023, marking a significant step in his comeback from Tommy John surgery.

Performance Details:: He pitched five innings, allowing two runs on three hits while striking out four. He threw 70 pitches.

Velocity Dip:: Alcantara's average four-seam fastball velocity was 96.2 mph, down from 98.2 mph on Opening Day, maxing out at 98.3 mph. He adjusted by using his changeup and breaking pitches more frequently.

Early Exit:: Despite his workhorse reputation, Alcantara was surprisingly pulled after five innings, a decision the manager made based on perceived effort and game state.

Lindor's Errors:: Francisco Lindor committed two fielding errors, a rare occurrence for the shortstop.

Costly Mistake:: Lindor's second error in the fourth inning opened the door for the Marlins' two go-ahead runs, which were unearned against pitcher Kodai Senga.

Senga's Debut:: In his first start following an injury-plagued 2024, Senga pitched five innings, allowing four runs (only two earned) on three hits, striking out eight batters (mostly via his forkball).

Why this matters:: Alcantara's successful return, even with adjustments, is vital for the Marlins' pitching staff. For the Mets, Lindor's defensive lapse highlights how crucial fielding is, especially behind returning pitchers like Senga, whose debut showed promise despite the loss.

Q: When was Sandy Alcantara's previous win?

A: His last win before this game was on September 3, 2023, against the Washington Nationals, his final start before undergoing Tommy John surgery.

Q: Why was Alcantara removed after only 70 pitches?

A: The manager observed a decrease in velocity compared to his prior start and felt Alcantara had given his maximum effort for five innings. He decided to trust the bullpen to secure the win based on the game situation.

Q: How did Francisco Lindor's errors affect Kodai Senga's pitching line?

A: Lindor's second error directly led to two unearned runs scoring in the fourth inning. Without the error, Senga might have escaped the inning scoreless. This changed Senga's final line from potentially two earned runs allowed to four runs allowed (two earned).

Monitor Alcantara's velocity and endurance in upcoming starts as he continues his comeback. His ability to adapt his pitching style is key.

Defensive plays can dramatically alter game outcomes. Lindor's unusual errors underscore the importance of solid fielding, especially for pitchers making their return.

Senga's return showed promise with high strikeout numbers, but he requires defensive support to translate that into wins.

Source 1: A short start but a successful one for Sandy, who earns 1st 'W' since '23 target="_blank"

Source 2: SNY.tv - Mets Notes: Francisco Lindor shoulders blame; Max Kranick a weapon out of bullpen

Source 3: Newsday - Kodai Senga, Mets doomed by key error in loss to Marlins