MIAMI — A.J. Ewing's offensive struggles in August may be a thing of the past, as the rookie outfielder achieved a three-hit, three-RBI performance in the Mets' 9-4 win against the Marlins on Monday.
This outing marked a significant improvement after a month where Ewing managed only two multi-hit games. He went 3-for-5 at the plate, contributing a two-run double in the fifth inning that extended the Mets' lead to 7-4, and added an RBI single later in the game.
Ewing attributed his recent success to a refined approach at the plate. "I would just say that I am not chasing results and kind of sticking to an approach and a plan and just being pitch to pitch," he said.
Interim manager Andy Green praised Ewing's performance, noting, "The at-bats are outstanding. He’s hitting the ball all over the field. He’s hitting with authority."
Despite a successful day at the plate, Ewing was picked off first base in the third inning. "He got a little far off the base," Green acknowledged, but added that Ewing's speed on the bases creates pressure that benefits the offense.
In other team news, Robert Stock is slated to start Wednesday's series finale against the Marlins. Reed Garrett, recovering from elbow surgery, is scheduled to throw from a mound on Tuesday for team officials. Jared Young was out of the lineup for the second consecutive game due to a foot injury sustained on Saturday, with Brett Baty starting at first base. Justin Hagenman was optioned to Triple-A Syracuse to make roster space for Jonah Tong.