Boston Red Sox at New York Mets by Tony T.
Matchup Analysis
The road starter enters with the stronger run-prevention profile. The strikeout rates are closely matched. Neither starter has a major control advantage. Ground-ball contact favors the home starter. Home-run prevention is nearly even.
Payton Tolle has made 14 starts in 14 appearances, while Zach Thornton has made 2 starts in 2 appearances. The comparison puts immediate focus on strike throwing, contact quality and each starter's ability to keep the ball in the park.