Tigers shine as Finnegan excels while Mets struggle with Helsley
The Detroit Tigers made a pivotal decision at the trade deadline that is paying off in spades, while the New York Mets continue to grapple with their choice in relief pitching.
Finnegan’s Impact in Detroit
In a move that initially raised eyebrows among fans, the Tigers opted for Kyle Finnegan, a former All-Star with the Washington Nationals, as their new closer. Since arriving in Detroit, Finnegan has quickly silenced any doubts. In his 12 appearances, he has yet to surrender a run, racking up an impressive 19 strikeouts against just three walks over 14.1 innings. His performance has already earned him a bWAR of 1.0, showcasing his value to the team.
This week, the Tigers had the opportunity to put Finnegan’s skills on display against the Mets, who had traded for Ryan Helsley, another highly regarded closer. The contrast in their performances has been stark.
Helsley’s Struggles Continue
Helsley’s journey with the Mets has not been as smooth. After a rough outing in the series opener, where he allowed two hits and a run in just two-thirds of an inning, the stage was set for him to redeem himself in Wednesday’s game. The Mets found themselves trailing 3-2 in the bottom of the seventh, and Helsley was called upon to stabilize the situation.
However, the inning quickly unraveled for him. After allowing a single and a walk, he faced Kerry Carpenter, who promptly launched a three-run homer, extending the Tigers’ lead and effectively putting the game out of reach for the Mets. The power of Carpenter’s swing not only highlighted the Tigers’ offensive capabilities but also underscored Helsley’s ongoing struggles since joining New York.
A Turning Point for the Tigers
The stark contrast between Finnegan’s success and Helsley’s challenges illustrates the critical nature of roster decisions made at the trade deadline. The Tigers, having embraced their new closer, are enjoying a surge of confidence that is reflected in their performances. Meanwhile, the Mets are left to ponder their own choices, as they cope with the fallout of Helsley’s inconsistent outings.
As the season progresses, both teams will be looking to solidify their pitching rotations, but for now, the Tigers are clearly reaping the rewards of their strategic moves, while the Mets face a growing concern in their bullpen.
