Hisanori Takahashi had his second straight subpar start, and though manager Jerry Manuel said he isn’t concerned about the former reliever, he admitted some things needed to change.
“What has to happen is possibly the third or second time through [the lineup], he might have to make changes to his strategy, the way they attacked some pitches,” Manuel said.
What hurt Takahashi most were two homers that the Marlins hit on 0-2 counts, including the three-run shot from Cody Ross that ended Takahashi’s day after 5 1/3 innings and five runs.
“I thought early on, he had good stuff,” Manuel said. “They made nice adjustments and he missed a couple of pitches, which he normally doesn’t do.”
Said a disappointed Takahashi: “I wish I could have battled tougher at the end.”
***
John Maine, still on the disabled list with rotator cuff tendinitis, threw a bullpen session yesterday and said he felt better than he did earlier in the week.
“I didn’t want to go on the DL to begin with, but I understand with me not being able to get my arm going, they had to do it,” said Maine, who hopes to have a minor league rehab appearance soon.
He’ll likely throw batting practice tomorrow, and Manuel said the Mets will go from there.
“More than anything, how he feels — and to some degree the results — will determine where we go,” said Manuel, adding Maine’s role upon his return is up in the air. “I think we will have to look at all options and see where we are as a team, see where he fits, see how he would fit if we look at the bullpen or whatever.”
***
Ruben Tejada was given the day off at second after playing two straight games in place of Luis Castillo. Alex Cora got the start. Carlos Beltran, who had played in two straight extended spring training games in Port St. Lucie, was off yesterday because extended spring training is over.
The Mets optioned Omir Santos after the game. Santos had been the third catcher, with Henry Blanco bothered by a herniated disc in his neck. Santos’ departure could mean the promotion of outfielder Jesus Feliciano from Triple-A Buffalo, since the Mets don’t have a backup centerfielder. They will make a move before tomorrow’s game.