ATLANTA – Robinson Cano is often trolled by the Truist Park organist with a chorus of “Mrs. Robinson ”when he approaches the plate.
More appropriate for Cano would be the legendary pop duo’s “Feelin ‘Groovy”. The second baseman of the Mets added two hits on Saturday – giving him 10 in his last five games – as a bright spot in a formation that looked lazy in a 7-1 defeat to the Braves.
Cano, who was elevated to fifth place in the batting order, drove in the Mets’ only heat with a sacrifice fly.
“He seems more comfortable at the plate,” manager Luis Rojas said before the match. “The last games we have seen. Its stance and mechanics seem much calmer by preparing early, recognizing shots and pulling out the club head. “
Cano missed a week at summer camp for personal reasons, which may have contributed to his slow departure.
Franklyn Kilome was added to the roster for a situation exactly like the one the Mets faced: a brief exit from their starting pitcher that required relief that devours more innings. Kilome was solid, allowing for two points earned on two hits with five strikeouts over four innings in his MLB debut.
“It was a crazy experience and I also have to thank the Mets for giving me this opportunity,” said Kilome, who missed last season following Tommy John’s intervention after arriving in the 2018 exchange that sent Asdrubal Cabrera to the Phillies.
“He’s a guy who will give us quality innings, we know the stuff is there,” Rojas said.
Dellin Betances, who pulled only one hitter on Friday and conceded four runs in the eighth inning, said he’s still adjusting to his inconsistent speed. The right-hander looked more troubled by the two walks it took than the two blows.
“I’m trying to improve and attack the frontcourt, I think it will help me,” said Betances, who appeared in only one game with the Yankees last season due to injuries. “I have to attack the strike zone to get these guys out and change speed. I’m not pitching as hard as a couple of years ago. “
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