NEW YORK METS (39-55, 5TH PLACE, NL EAST)
BIG PICTURE
Remember when the Mets began the season 11-1? Almost nothing has gone right since then, except for Jacob deGrom pitching like an ace (but still not winning). In addition to losing games, the Mets lost their general manager when Sandy Alderson had to take a leave of absence to be treated for cancer. His three top assistants are in charge for the rest of the season, hoping they can find a way to make sure future years go better than this one has. It would help if they could get their highest-paid player back. Yoenis Cespedes hasn’t played since May 13 because of a hip injury.
BEST PERFORMANCE
Normally, a 1.68 ERA in 19 starts would result in a lot of victories, but deGrom is 5-4 because of a lack of run support.
BIGGEST SURPRISE
Brandon Nimmo began the season without a spot in the outfield, but he has been the Mets’ best offensive player.
BIGGEST DISAPPOINTMENT
Outfielder Jay Bruce, who signed a three-year, $39 million contract in the offseason, has three home runs and is out because of a strained right hip.
TRADE-DEADLINE FORECAST
The Mets could shake up the entire trade market if they showed much willingness to discuss deGrom. They are more likely to move closer Jeurys Familia and infielder Asdrubal Cabrera, both free agents at the end of the season.
KEY SERIES
vs. Atlanta Braves Aug. 2-5
Danny Knobler