Fans of the New York Mets (25-40) haven't had much to cheer about this season, but tonight they can tune into a doubleheader featuring a building block of the franchise, starter Zack Wheeler (0-0, 0:00 ERA). Wheeler will start Game 2 of a doubleheader at Turner Field, which is scheduled for a 7:05 p.m. start time. The game can be live streamed here; Mets fans can listen to the game on 101.9 WFAN FM, while Braves fans can hear the action on 93.7 FM.
This season is about developing for the future in Queens and by promoting Wheeler, the organization hopes to start the clock on becoming a contender based on a strong, young pitching staff.
Wheeler was the key piece the Mets received from the San Francisco Giants in return for outfielder Carlos Beltran, who is now raking for the St. Louis Cardinals. In Triple A this year Wheeler has gone 4-2 with a 3.93 ERA and 1.282 WHIP in 13 starts. He has struck out 73 batters in 68 innings and walked 27.
"I know it's going to be a big moment in my life," Wheeler said. "There's probably going to be some nerves." Those nerves may have gotten worse now that he has to follow an absolutely electric performance from Matt Harvey in which he no-hit Atlanta for six innings.
Wheeler will go up against Paul Maholm (7-5, 3.65 ERA), whose total numbers look good but have masked some recent hiccups. Maholm has given up five and four runs in two of his last four starts. Those outings sandwich two starts in which he combined for 13.1 innings, three runs, seven strikeouts and only two walks.
Wheeler will not have to face catcher/outfielder Evan Gattis in his debut, who was placed on the disabled list by the Braves today with an oblique strain. Gattis is currently second on the team with 14 home runs.
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