As the New York Mets gear up for the National League Championship Series (NLCS), they find themselves with a rare opportunity to strategize and align their pitching rotation effectively. With the upcoming matchup against either the Los Angeles Dodgers or the San Diego Padres, the Mets must carefully plan their pitching assignments to maximize their chances of success.

The Importance of Flexibility and Rest

Before the NLCS kicks off, the Mets have the luxury of time to determine their pitching rotation. While they have not yet announced their starters, it is crucial for them to remain flexible as they await the outcome of the Dodgers vs. Padres series. This downtime allows their pitchers to be well-rested and ready to perform at their best, eliminating excuses for underperformance.

One key factor in this strategy involves how they deploy Kodai Senga. Despite his recent return to form, Senga’s difficulty in pitching deep into games presents a dilemma. While there is potential for him to start in Game 1, it may be more prudent to save him for Game 2, allowing Tylor Megill to step in if necessary. This approach helps the Mets avoid overextending Senga and preserves their options for later games in the series.

Key Pitching Assignments: Manaea and Quintana

The Mets also need to consider how best to utilize Sean Manaea and José Quintana in this critical series. Manaea’s potential to start in one of the first two games is a significant factor, particularly if the series extends to a Game 6 or 7. Given the unpredictable nature of postseason baseball, positioning him correctly will be vital for a successful outing.

Conversely, José Quintana has been a solid contributor in his postseason appearances. The Mets should slot him for a start in Game 4, replicating his performance from the NLDS. Although some fans have speculated about moving Manaea or Luis Severino to a relief role, it seems more beneficial to maintain Quintana in a starting capacity, given his consistency.

Ultimately, the Mets have a more robust rotation compared to many teams in the league. By carefully managing their pitchers’ assignments and ensuring they are well-rested, the Mets can take full advantage of this opportunity to make a deep playoff run.

In summary, the upcoming NLCS presents the Mets with a chance to establish a winning rotation strategy against formidable opponents. With careful planning and execution, the Mets can turn their historical challenges into triumphs and pave the way for a successful postseason.