Zach Thornton’s performance on Sunday may secure him a more permanent role in the New York Mets’ rotation, offering a rare bright spot in an otherwise disappointing season. The rookie left-hander pitched seven shutout innings against a strong Boston lineup, allowing only two hits and two walks over 82 pitches in a 3-2, 10-inning loss.
Interim manager Andy Green confirmed that the 24-year-old will make his next start in the majors, a move necessitated by the current state of the Mets' pitching staff. Thornton has impressed the organization with his ability to maximize his pitching arsenal, despite not possessing overpowering velocity on his four-seamer, which typically sits in the low 90s.
"He attacked, was aggressive and had tempo," Green said of Thornton’s outing. "He missed barrels. … For us, that is what we want to see out of him."
Thornton credited his success to effectively using all five of his pitches for strikes. He drew inspiration from pitchers like Jacob deGrom, who consistently delivered deep outings. "DeGrom would go seven or eight innings every time, through the lineup three or four times," Thornton said.
He retired 13 of the first 14 batters he faced, not allowing a baserunner until a leadoff walk in the second inning. A double in the fifth inning was the only other hit he allowed. He finished the inning by striking out Jarren Duran and inducing a groundout.
Thornton's opportunity comes as the Mets are experiencing significant turnover and injuries in their rotation. Kodai Senga is sidelined, Clay Holmes is recovering from a fractured fibula, and Tobias Myers was optioned to Triple-A Syracuse. Freddy Peralta is also expected to be traded before the August 3 deadline.
"I’m super excited to be here to contribute to wins," Thornton said when asked about his major league aspirations. "I think I belong anywhere."
"He’s unafraid," Green added. "We’re seeing who he is. He attacks everybody at every level."
For a team struggling to find consistent success, Thornton's emergence as a reliable starter could be a significant development to watch in the second half of the season.