**Carlos Mendoza Switches Subway Series Sides as Mets’ New Manager**

Carlos Mendoza, formerly of the New York Yankees coaching staff, is set to experience the celebrated Subway Series from the dugout of the New York Mets, marking a first in his baseball career. The series, a highlight for many fans and players alike, showcases the rivalry between the two New York franchises.

For J.D. Martinez of the Mets, the series is less about the rivalry and more about the game’s specifics, particularly the pitchers’ strategies and choices. In contrast, teammate Harrison Bader shows a more traditional excitement towards the inter-city competition, embracing the fanfare and rivalry that comes with it.

The Mets recently faced controversy as pitcher Edwin Díaz was ejected in a game against the Cubs, with Crew Chief Vic Carapazza dismissing Díaz’s claims of innocence. The incident has sparked debates on pitchers’ conduct and the regulations surrounding in-game examinations, as highlighted by analyst Will Sammon.

As the trade deadline approaches, league insiders predict the Mets will be looking to strengthen their bullpen, given their relatively easier schedule in the next few weeks and their ambitions to contend strongly this season.

Injury updates within the team reveal that outfielder Starling Marte has been advised a 15-day rest due to bone inflammation in his right knee. Meanwhile, Luis Torrens returns from the paternity list, and Joe Hudson faces designation for assignment.

In a nod to baseball broadcasting history, Howie Rose celebrated half a century behind the microphone with a visit to WFAN, continuing his legacy in sports journalism.

Prospect rankings also got a mid-season refresh from Joe DeMayo, offering insights into future stars within the Mets organization.

**Around the National League East and Beyond**

The Phillies achieved a rare 1-3-5 triple play in an 8-1 triumph over the Tigers, a feat not seen in almost a century. Meanwhile, the Atlanta Braves witnessed a narrow defeat to the Cardinals, and changes to their rotation, with Ray Kerr undergoing Tommy John Surgery. Both Orlando Arcia and Adam Duvall are currently experiencing a downturn in performance, adding to the Braves’ challenges.

The Marlins faced a defeat by the Royals, and the Nationals lost to the Padres in a dramatic ninth-inning turnaround.

**Major League Baseball Highlights**

MLB Power Rankings signal no surprises as top teams maintain their positions. All-Star voting heats up with some tight races across the board. Shohei Ohtani and Josh Naylor received Player of the Week honors in their respective leagues.

Missing Bats, a new series by The Athletic, dives deep into baseball strategy and analytics.

A tribute to Willie Mays at Oracle Park saw players and fans alike honoring the legend’s legacy, with his son, Michael Mays, present for the commemorations.

Injury updates from around the league include significant stints on the IL for notable players such as Fernando Tatis Jr. and Yu Darvish, while the Dodgers’ Clayton Kershaw experiences a rehab setback due to shoulder soreness.

The Angels’ Patrick Sandoval faces surgery for a torn UCL, marking another loss for the team’s pitching staff.

Notable performances and moments from recent games included a historic home run by the Reds’ Elly de la Cruz, a barehanded fan catch at Camden Yards, and several dramatic walk-off victories, emphasizing the unpredictability and excitement inherent in baseball.

The Mets continue to navigate the season with strategic plays on and off the field, keeping fans eagerly watching as the playoffs approach.