Sports
Sean Manaea to Start Season in Mets' Bullpen 'Piggyback' Role
Sean Manaea will begin the season in a relief role for the New York Mets. Manager Carlos Mendoza said Manaea will have a "piggyback" role, following a starter in the first rotation cycle.
The New York Mets will use their rotation depth to their advantage this season. Carlos Mendoza told reporters that the team was honest with all pitchers at the beginning of camp. Mendoza said that with everyone healthy, the team would have to make tough decisions, with one pitcher working in a "piggyback" role. Sean Manaea's fastball velocity sat in the 88-89 mph range during spring training. In 2024, his fastball averaged 92-93 mph.
Key Facts
- Sean Manaea will begin the season in the bullpen for the Mets.
- Manaea will pitch in a "piggyback" role, following a starter.
- The Mets will open with a rotation of Freddy Peralta, David Peterson, Nolan McLean, Clay Holmes and Kodai Senga.
- Manaea's fastball averaged 92-93 mph in 2024.
- Manaea's fastball sat in the 88-89 mph range during Grapefruit League play.
- The Mets have rotation depth, giving the team alternatives and flexibility.
- The Mets traded for Freddy Peralta and Tobias Myers earlier in the year.
Primary Source
Research Sources
- Empire Sports Media — Sean Manaea excluded from initial Mets' rotation; will fill 'piggyback' role
- WHAS 11 Louisville — Mets veteran Sean Manaea will open the season in a relief role rather than the starting rotation