The New York Mets are currently on a strong playoff push, but star first baseman Pete Alonso has been struggling at the plate during a crucial part of the season. After sustaining a hand contusion injury that caused him to briefly opt out of the lineup, Alonso’s timing and confidence appear to have suffered, raising concerns within the team as they prepare for the stretch run.
Mets’ manager Carlos Mendoza openly acknowledged Alonso’s difficulties, highlighting the importance of timing issues that have contributed to the first baseman’s recent decline in effectiveness at the plate. Mendoza detailed the problem by stating,
He’s late, you know, late. So he’s missing good pitches to hit and not recognizing a time, you know. But I feel like he’s swinging through pitches in the strike zone that he usually, when he’s locked in, he does damage with.
—Carlos Mendoza, Mets Manager
Impact of the Hand Injury on Alonso’s Form
Alonso’s hand injury initially sidelined him for the Mets game on July 23 after he had played the previous day. Although the injury was not severe enough for a prolonged absence, its timing appears to have disrupted Alonso’s rhythm and plate approach. Mendoza emphasized that the issue goes beyond mechanics, pointing to both physical and mental adjustments that Alonso is navigating as he tries to regain his best form.
Despite this, Mendoza remains hopeful about Alonso’s ability to bounce back, expressing confidence in his star player’s resilience. He reassured the media with,
The good ones, the elite ones, just like Pete, they will find a way to get it done. And he will.
—Carlos Mendoza, Mets Manager
Balancing Alonso’s Health and Playing Time
Mendoza emphasized the importance of Alonso knowing his limits and managing his physical condition carefully, especially amid this period of struggle. The Mets manager noted,
This guy knows how to take care of himself and he knows his body.
—Carlos Mendoza, Mets Manager
Alonso’s eagerness to stay on the field is evident, but Mendoza’s comments suggest that the team must carefully balance his workload to prevent further setbacks. This approach reflects the understanding that Alonso’s road back to peak performance is complicated and requires more than simply waiting for a return to form.
The Mets’ Bullpen Reinforcement Strategy and Jax’s Potential Role
While Alonso’s personal performance is a significant concern, the Mets are also focusing on strengthening their bullpen as the trade deadline approaches. In particular, securing a setup man is a priority following uncertainty around Edwin Díaz’s future with the team. One potential target is Minnesota Twins reliever Griffin Jax, whose blend of control and effectiveness stands out across the league.
Despite Jax’s 3.74 ERA, his advanced metrics, including a 1.92 FIP and 68 strikeouts in 43 2/3 innings, underscore his genuine dominance on the mound. His low salary and two years of team control after the 2025 season make him a financially attractive option for the Mets, particularly as they seek reliable late-inning pitching without overspending.
For the Mets, Jax’s pitching style and poise in high-pressure situations would provide a needed upgrade in their bullpen, bolstering their chances during critical playoff games. However, a deal depends on the Twins’ willingness to trade and the Mets’ ability to balance value with roster needs amid the trade deadline frenzy.
Alonso’s Future: Resolution or Reassessment Needed?
As the Mets race toward the postseason, all eyes remain on Pete Alonso’s gradual effort to regain his previous offensive impact. His current slump, compounded by injury-related challenges and mental adjustments, is creating tension within the team environment. Manager Mendoza’s candid analysis reflects a complex situation that is not easily resolved.
The Mets are faced with a decision: rely on Alonso to overcome this difficult phase through experience and resilience, or explore alternative options to compensate for his reduced effectiveness. Alonso’s health and consistency will likely influence the team’s strategy not only for the remainder of the season but also for their long-term playoff ambitions.
The developments around Alonso, combined with potential bullpen reinforcements such as Griffin Jax, will shape the Mets’ push as they aim to maintain their competitive edge in the coming weeks.