Mets confirm full-strength lineup for Phillies clash as Soto and Semien return
Juan Soto and Marcus Semien are set to start against Philadelphia, with Sean Manaea taking the mound for New York in a crucial series matchup at Citizens Bank Park.
The New York Mets have confirmed their starting lineup for Saturday’s 4:10 p.m. contest against the Philadelphia Phillies at Citizens Bank Park, resolving recent injury concerns ahead of a pivotal series. Outfielder Juan Soto, who had exited Thursday’s game due to left calf tightness, has been included in the order, alleviating initial worries about his availability for the second half of the season.
Infielder Marcus Semien also returns to the lineup for the first time since 24 June, having been sidelined by a hip flexor strain. Semien was activated on Thursday and is now ready to contribute as the Mets look to extend their recent momentum against their National League East rivals.
Pitching duties will be handled by left-handers for both clubs. Sean Manaea is set to make his seventh start of the season for the Mets, having opened the year in the bullpen. The veteran southpaw enters with a 2-4 record and a 4.56 ERA, though he has shown improvement as a starter with a 3.94 ERA in his seven starts. Manaea comes off a strong performance against the Royals, where he allowed two earned runs over seven innings.
On the opposing side, Jesus Luzardo will make his 20th start for the Phillies. The All-Star pitcher brings an 8-4 record and a 3.51 ERA into the matchup, providing a significant challenge for the Mets’ batting order. Luzardo’s consistency has been a key factor for Philadelphia as they navigate the second half of the season.
The Mets enter this contest seeking their second series victory in their last three games, following a 4-1 win over the Phillies secured by home runs from Francisco Alvarez and a scoreless 5⅔-inning outing from Christian Scott. The upcoming two-day series in Philadelphia offers New York a chance to solidify their standing in the division.
The confirmed Mets lineup features Francisco Lindor at shortstop, Soto designated for hit, Bo Bichette at third base, and Francisco Alvarez catching. The outfield consists of Carson Benge, Tyrone Taylor, and A.J. Ewing, with Eric Wagaman at first base and Marcus Semien at second base.
