Mets (Butto) vs Royals (Ragans) 1:40 PM
Dwight “Doc” Gooden Number Retirement
One of the more exciting days for Mets fans as Doc Gooden’s number will be set to retire pregame. A very well deserved number retirement in Mets history as Doc has racked up awards throughout his 16 year career. 4 time all-star, 2 time World Series champion (most notably for the 1986 Mets World Series), NL Cy Young Award winner, MLB ERA & Wins leader in 1985, and NL Rookie of the Year in 1984. It will be a very special day for Mets fans around the world and an emotional day for Doc.
For the Mets a win today would mean they have won their third straight series. A confidence booster for the Mets to say the least, but more importantly showing the rest of the league that they can fight back. This is the type of team that David Stearns envisioned heading into the season a group of fighters being able to grind out wins.
For the Royals Cole Ragans will take the hill as he looks to shut down a hot Mets lineup. Ragans has a 2.60 ERA through three starts with 21 strikeouts. While it may seem like Ragans has struck out a lot of batters he has faced a Twins lineup that is 8th in the league in strikeouts and the Orioles who are 20th in strikeouts. The Mets ranked 29th in strikeouts with 101 on the season for the offense.
Jose Butto will take the start for the Mets this afternoon who has had one appearance for the Mets this season. Butto gave up one run against the Tigers with 6 strikeouts. Ever since his Mets debut Butto has improved over time. In 2022 Butto had one start where he gave up 9 hits and 7 runs and was not seen again the rest of the year. In 2023 he had 9 appearances and had a 3.64 ERA with 38 strikeouts. Button will look to continue to improve against the Royals this afternoon.
Keys to the game:
Besides Butto keeping the Royals in check, the Mets are going to have to capitalize with runners in scoring position. They have been able to do that over the last week, but in Ragans first two starts teams have constantly left runners on base. The Mets are going to have to find ways throughout the game to drive in runners in key spots.