Matthew Moreno "It's kind of what we thought was best for today." - Don Mattingly on decision to start Joc Pederson over Kiké Hernandez "kind of."
The numbers do the explaining really. Joc in September ( during struggles) - .203 AVG/.308 OBP/.637 OPS Kike against righties - .234 AVG/.262 OBP/.592 OPS And of course Joc's save their asses numerous times in CF this year with his defense. Kike all the way against lefties no contest, but Joc is good for tonight at least. If he doesn't walk at least once, make the switch next game.
Yeah, defense is important when you have deGrom/Kershaw pitching....could be a 1 run game either way so I definitely understand and like the move to put Joc in center. I just hate the "kind of" answer by Donnie.
It's only pressure if you let it be. Some people blossom under pressure. Corey already has a big bro in the league so he's not starstruck like so many might be.
Corey just seems to have that perfect demeanor....I would be surprised if the stage gets to him. If he struggles, it'll be because deGrom is a hell of a pitcher.
I don't mind this lineup. Love seeing Corey in that 3 hole. I think the kid is gonna make an even bigger splash in these playoffs. The mets have some great young pitchers but let's see how they do in the spotlight of these playoffs. As much as "the experts" try to spin it as its the same game it's really not. The crowd reacts to every single play, every single AB. Everything is magnified. That's why I thought it was imperative we got homefield over these guys. We win tonight that puts even more pressure on a rook in a must win game 2. I like our chances. The chase for a ring starts tonight. Let's do this shit!!