The New York Mets made notable changes to their pitching rotation on Thursday. Left-handed pitcher Josh Walker was recalled from Triple-A Syracuse, while fellow lefty Joey Lucchesi was optioned back down to Syracuse after a brief stint with the big league team, according to SNY.
Walker, who has already appeared in three games for the Mets this season, was first called up ahead of their matchup against the San Francisco Giants on April 22. Over three innings pitched, the second-year talent has notched three strikeouts, maintaining a flawless 0.00 ERA and an impressive 0.667 WHIP.
The 29-year-old has garnered the trust of manager Carlos Mendoza and the Mets’ decision-makers. His performance in Triple-A, where he secured three of his four saves in May, has been equally commendable. Walker posted a 1.69 ERA and a 1.13 WHIP with 10 strikeouts, showcasing his ability to deliver under pressure.
In contrast, Lucchesi struggled in his only start on Wednesday. He allowed five earned runs on five hits, with two strikeouts and four walks over 4.1 innings, contributing to the Mets’ 10-5 loss to the Philadelphia Phillies.
The 30-year-old Lucchesi will return to Triple-A, where he will have the chance to refine his game and potentially earn another shot at the majors, especially if injuries or other issues arise in the Mets’ starting rotation.
As the Mets continue to navigate the challenges of the season, these roster moves reflect their ongoing efforts to optimize their pitching staff and maintain a competitive edge.