It seemed like a quiet day on the mound for New York Mets pitcher David Peterson. His game against the Washington Nationals was dominant, allowing just one hit in 5.1 innings and cruising with just 77 pitches. However, the decision came from the dugout, and his night was over. It wasn’t the scoreboard that told the whole story; it was the fire in Peterson’s eyes.
That advantage did not go unnoticed. Mets manager Carlos Mendoza, in his first year dealing with the dynamics of the New York locker room, recognized something deeper behind Peterson’s calm demeanor. It wasn’t just a pitcher who was having a good game. It was a competitor who wanted the ball, who believed the mound still belonged to him. And Mendoza was not going to criticize that. On the contrary, he appreciated it.
New York Mets manager Carlos Mendoza unfazed by Peterson’s anger
In the conversation with his manager, David Peterson showed his anger without making violent gestures, shouting, slapping or kicking. His furious look was evident at the possible change. “He wants to be in the most important moments of the game. In an important game, he wants to be the leader. With the bases loaded against the best hitter, he wants to be there,” Carlos Mendoza told reporters before the game. “Only a few times did I take him before, you know, he was furious. So I like that.” That mentality, according to the New York Mets manager, is not just about pride; it’s about identity.
Peterson is not the loudest in the room, but he is one of the most intentional. Mendoza recalled the early days of spring training, when Peterson wasn’t even cleared to pitch competitively. Since his return to the pitching field, Peterson has shown some determination in small but impactful gestures. Adapting his pitches with precision on each pitch and keeping his composure during tense moments in the game, and yes, his disappointment when the ball is taken away from him.
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The Mets are still looking for stability in 2025, but Mendoza sees more than a reliable pitcher in Peterson. He sees determination and courage to face challenges. A guy who is looking for success. If taking him out of the lineup leads to seeing more of that passion, Mendoza agrees. In a lineup that has been tested and changed, one thing is certain: Peterson is not just coming back; he is making his mark.
David Peterson not only pitched well; he dominated the night at Citi Field. On June 11, the left-hander shone as he pitched his first shutout in a complete game, allowing the Mets to secure a 5-0 victory over the Washington Nationals. Peterson showed his talent from the start of the game, striking out seven batters and deftly moving through the Nationals’ lineup with confidence. He finished the night with 106 pitches, six strikeouts, no walks and only six hits allowed, dominating the innings with the mastery of a veteran.
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