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Diamondbacks vs Mets Game Preview: Battle-Tested Arms to Decide Series in New York
As the Arizona Diamondbacks and New York Mets prepare to wrap up their three-game set Thursday afternoon at Citi Field, both clubs are realizing just how thin their margin for error is—even amid strong starts to the season.
With a chance to claim the series, Zac Gallen (1-4, 5.57 ERA) takes the mound for Arizona against Mets ace Kodai Senga (3-1, 1.26 ERA) in what promises to be a pitching showdown and a potential turning point for both teams as May gets underway.
Track game-day betting odds and player props at the MLB odds page.
Diamondbacks Lean on Gallen Amid Bullpen Uncertainty
Arizona managed to pull out a 4-3 win on Wednesday, thanks to a clutch, pinch-hit two-run single by Geraldo Perdomo and late-inning heroics from Ryan Thompson, who earned his first save of the season.
But the bigger story surrounds closer Justin Martinez, whose velocity has taken a noticeable dip. Once known for topping out at 99-100 mph, Martinez hit just 96 mph in his outing—concerning enough that manager Torey Lovullo hinted at possible medical testing or an IL stint.
“We definitely know that things aren’t the same right now,” Lovullo said postgame.
Martinez’s struggles are ill-timed, especially with A.J. Puk already on the shelf until at least June. The bullpen, already paper-thin, may be stretched even further if Gallen can’t provide length in Thursday’s start.
Visit the MLB team pages for updated player injury news and depth chart changes.
Zac Gallen Aiming for Turnaround
It’s been a rocky start to 2024 for Zac Gallen, Arizona’s ace. He’s 1-4 with a 5.57 ERA, and in his last outing vs. the Braves, he allowed three runs over five innings in an 8-2 loss.
Still, the potential remains. Gallen has maintained strong command, and his 3.77 career ERA vs. the Mets suggests he’s capable of flipping the switch at any moment.
“We’ve seen him dominate lineups before,” Lovullo said earlier in the week. “It’s just about getting back to that rhythm.”
A bounce-back effort from Gallen would be timely—especially as Arizona sits in a crowded National League playoff race.
Mets Dealing with Injury Bug Despite Hot Start
At 21-10, the Mets are off to one of the best starts in the league, tied with the Los Angeles Dodgers for the best record in MLB. But they’re suddenly facing critical injuries in their bullpen.
Danny Young was placed on the 15-day IL Wednesday with an elbow sprain, and Tommy John surgery is on the table. A.J. Minter, another key arm, is out indefinitely with a left lat strain.
“That’s about as bad of timing as you can get,” Young said.
Only one lefty remains active in the Mets bullpen—Brandon Waddell, who was excellent in his season debut (4 1/3 scoreless innings Wednesday) but is unlikely to be available after the heavy workload.
Explore pitching trends and bullpen metrics on the MLB expert betting guide.
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Kodai Senga Anchoring Mets Rotation
While the bullpen needs help, Kodai Senga continues to be a stabilizing force in the Mets’ rotation. The right-hander owns a 3-1 record with a 1.26 ERA, and has been nearly unhittable in two career starts vs. Arizona, allowing just one earned run in 14 innings.
In his most recent start against the Washington Nationals, Senga allowed two runs across six innings in a no-decision. His sweeping splitter and pinpoint fastball continue to keep hitters off-balance.
“He’s been everything we hoped for,” manager Carlos Mendoza said.
If Senga can neutralize the Diamondbacks early, it could buy the injury-riddled bullpen some much-needed breathing room.
Game Snapshot: Diamondbacks vs Mets
| Category | Arizona Diamondbacks | New York Mets |
|---|---|---|
| Series Score | Tied 1-1 | Tied 1-1 |
| Starting Pitcher | Zac Gallen (1-4, 5.57 ERA) | Kodai Senga (3-1, 1.26 ERA) |
| Bullpen Concerns | Martinez, Puk injured | Young, Minter injured |
| Last Game Result | Won 4-3 (Wednesday) | Lost 4-3 (Wednesday) |
| Key Batter | Perdomo (2 RBI Game 2) | Lindor, Soto struggling |
| Injury Watch | Martinez shoulder fatigue | Young elbow, Minter lat |
Players to Watch
Zac Gallen (ARI) – Looking to reset his season after a rough April. His track record suggests a rebound is coming.
Kodai Senga (NYM) – The Mets’ most reliable starter this season. He’s dominated Arizona in limited matchups.
Geraldo Perdomo (ARI) – Wednesday’s hero off the bench could be in line for more playing time with his bat heating up.
Francisco Lindor (NYM) – Walked in a key ninth-inning moment on Wednesday. Could be due for a breakout game soon.
FAQs
When is Diamondbacks vs Mets Game 3?
Thursday afternoon at Citi Field in New York.
Who’s starting on the mound?
Zac Gallen for the Diamondbacks vs. Kodai Senga for the Mets.
What’s the current series score?
Tied 1-1 in the three-game set.
What are the key injuries?
Diamondbacks may be without closer Justin Martinez (shoulder). Mets lost Danny Young (elbow) and A.J. Minter (lat strain).
How have Gallen and Senga performed vs these opponents?
Gallen: 0-2, 3.77 ERA vs Mets; Senga: 2-0, 0.64 ERA vs Diamondbacks.
Where can I get betting picks and expert insights?
Visit the MLB Picks Page for daily game breakdowns and prop bets.
