The New York Mets are facing a pitching dilemma as their early-season success fades. Once boasting a strong rotation, injuries have left the back half struggling, prompting speculation on potential trades. With the return of Kodai Senga and Sean Manaea, the Mets need one more reliable starter to solidify their playoff ambitions. Analysts suggest Merrill Kelly of the Arizona Diamondbacks could be the answer, given his impressive stats and postseason experience.

Bringing Kelly aboard would not only enhance the Mets' rotation alongside David Peterson and the returning Senga, but it also presents a strategic move as they seek to make a deep playoff run. However, the availability of Kelly is uncertain, as he may be sought after by multiple teams, and the Mets must weigh the cost of giving up prospects like Blade Tidwell for a rental.

David Peterson has earned a spot at the MLB All-Star Game, marking a significant achievement in his career. After battling injuries, including a torn labrum, Peterson has emerged as a key player for the New York Mets. In the current season, he boasts a stellar 2.90 ERA over 21 starts with a record of 10-3, showcasing his improved performance. His pitching arsenal includes a five-pitch mix that has earned him a high ground-ball out percentage, ranking him in the 94th percentile according to Statcast. This honor comes as Peterson prepares for a momentous All-Star appearance alongside teammates Francisco Lindor, Pete Alonso, and Edwin Diaz, bringing excitement to his family, especially to his son, Callahan.

The anticipation surrounding MLB All-Star selections has reached a peak as fans eagerly await the final roster announcements. After two rounds of voting, fans selected the starting players while players and coaches chose the reserves. With injuries and personal decisions influencing the final lineups, players such as David Peterson of the New York Mets have stepped up, earning their spot as an All-Star replacement.

Peterson showcased his potential with a stellar performance against the Baltimore Orioles, pitching seven innings and allowing just one run while striking out six batters. Despite a tough loss for the Mets, his consistency throughout the season, a 3.06 ERA, and impressive ground ball rate solidified his selection. He will join fellow Mets Francisco Lindor, Pete Alonso, and Edwin Díaz in Atlanta, aiming to maintain his momentum into the second half of the season.

The New York Mets' struggles with situational hitting were evident again in their 3-1 loss to the Baltimore Orioles on Thursday. Despite taking an early lead thanks to a double from Tyrone Taylor, their inability to capitalize on scoring opportunities, particularly with runners in scoring position, left them frustrated. David Peterson had a strong outing, allowing only one run, but a two-run homer by Gunnar Henderson off Ryne Stanek in the eighth sealed the Mets' fate.

Manager Carlos Mendoza's decision to pull Peterson, who pitched effectively through seven innings, drew mixed reactions. Stanek, tasked with handling the left-handed hitters, faltered, showcasing the Mets' ongoing issues in high-pressure scenarios. Taylor's double was the lone highlight in a game where the Mets went 1-for-11 with runners in scoring position, further solidifying their position among the lowest in the league in that regard.

The New York Mets face off against the Baltimore Orioles on Thursday in Game 2 of their doubleheader after a tightly contested series. The teams are currently tied at one game apiece, with the Orioles winning Game 1, 3-1, courtesy of a late two-run home run by Gunner Henderson. Mets' pitcher David Peterson showcased a stellar performance, allowing only one earned run over 7 innings, while the Orioles' Charlie Morton matched him with a similar outing. As the Mets look to bounce back, they have yet to announce their Game 2 starter, while the Orioles will send Tomoyuki Sugano to the mound.

With the latest odds favoring the Mets slightly at -116, fantasy players should keep an eye on the matchups and player performances. The Mets have recently been strong on the road, and while they only managed 5 hits in Game 1, Mark Vientos was a standout with 2 hits. The Orioles, now at 41-50, have room to improve, especially with their pitching rotation. The matchup is set to be an exciting one, with projections indicating a total of 10 runs.