New York Mets vs. Washington Nationals: 5 Bold Predictions

Bullpen Struggles Continue

Sep 6, 2015; Miami, FL, USA; New York Mets pitching coach Dan Warthen (59) talks with relief pitcher Tyler Clippard (46) on the pitchers mound during the ninth inning against the Miami Marlins at Marlins Park. Mandatory Credit: Steve Mitchell-USA TODAY Sports

Coming into this series, the Mets and Nationals share the same weakness; the bullpen. The bullpen lost the two games over the weekend against the Marlins for the Mets, while the bullpen for the Nationals (namely Casey Janssen) blew the games against the Cardinals in the beginning of last week.

But, the problems are different. For the Mets, it’s a lack of options. Terry Collins right now has no trust in anyone outside Tyler Clippard and Jeurys Familia, causing problems in the middle innings of games and in extra innings when it happens. That was the case Sunday, as he opted to extend Clippard, which most likely puts him out of the series opener and possibly Tuesday’s game.

For the Nationals, it goes back to the trade deadline When they acquired Jonathan Papelbon, it threw things out of whack. Drew Storen has not been anywhere near as good since being removed from the closer’s role. After giving up no earned runs in July, Storen gave up 11 in August and already has given up three in September, although only one was earned. Still, he is nowhere near as effective and it has hurt the Nationals. Also, Matt Williams reliance on certain people in certain situations has caused problems, which is basically the reason they lost two games to the Cardinals, which the Mets thank him.

The same problems will pop up in this series as well. Despite the elite starting pitchers that will be going, the bullpens will still be needed. They may not decide games in the same fashion they have the past week, but they will still have a hand in the final scores as both bullpens will struggle once again. Both bullpens will have ERAs of at least 4.50 in the series.

Next: Strasburg Returns To Form