Mets lean on rookie trio Sproat, Tong and McLean to stabilize a rotation that’s been series-by-series this month. Megill nears a return and Senga should pitch again before the postseason, while Manaea, Peterson and Holmes remain key veterans. Sproat’s six-inning, near-no-hitter underscored why the youngsters are in the rotation, with Tong and McLean adapting after tough debuts. Nimmo anchors a lineup that must produce to chase a playoff berth.

The rookie surge reshapes the rotation’s floor as Giants sit 3.5 back and Reds and Diamondbacks 4.0 back. Mets’ path hinges on continued rookie production, even as Reed Garrett returns and Sproat joins the roster rostered for September. The playoff push remains narrow but feasible with youth supplying upside.