Overview
- The Mets are chasing a season-best fifth straight win on Saturday and held rookie outfielder Carson Benge out of the lineup after he jammed his left wrist Friday; X-rays were negative and his status is day-to-day.
- New York will start right-hander Robert Stock while Pittsburgh counters with righty Bubba Chandler in the scheduled probable pitching matchup for the game.
- The Pirates have dropped four straight and sit 57-61 as injuries sideline several regulars; Oneil Cruz began a rehab assignment Friday but manager Don Kelly said his return timeline is uncertain.
- With playoff chances out of reach, the Mets are using the stretch to evaluate young players such as Zac Thornton and A.J. Ewing while managing prospect health and playing time.
- Pittsburgh’s recent skid and roster absences risk further damage to its wild-card chase and could force short-term lineup or depth moves while both teams monitor Cruz’s rehab and Benge’s recovery.