The Mets sit at 34-43, buried in last place in the NL East and six games out of the final wild card spot. Despite the disappointment, president of baseball operations David Stearns insists the team will remain patient through the Aug. 3 trade deadline. He acknowledged owner Steve Cohen's frustration with the $375 million roster's performance.

Five-time All-Star shortstop Francisco Lindor prepares to return from a left calf strain that sidelined him since April 22. Lindor posted just a .226 average with two homers and a .669 OPS in 24 games before injury. Bo Bichette, signed to a three-year, $126 million deal to play third base, has rebounded from his early-season struggles. After posting a .531 OPS on May 17, Bichette now bats .304 with six homers and an .848 OPS in 31 games.

Starting pitching continues to plague the Mets, ranking 28th in walk rate and 27th with a 4.74 ERA. Freddy Peralta, acquired from Milwaukee, lasted just 2⅔ innings against Philadelphia while allowing 10 runs. Clay Holmes' broken fibula in mid-May devastated an already thin rotation. Kodai Senga carries a 9.00 ERA into Tuesday's start.

Christian Scott's pending return from the injured list gives the Mets another rotation option this weekend. Stearns emphasized the need for consistent strike throwing and better late-game production. The team faces a critical evaluation period start by start as they determine whether to buy or sell at the deadline.