Mets Face Challenges with Alvarez in Postseason

Francisco Alvarez's struggles have been a significant factor for the Mets in the NLCS against the Dodgers, particularly highlighted by his poor performance in Game 3, where he struck out three times and committed a costly error that contributed to an 8-0 loss. His offensive woes have left him with a dismal .143 batting average in the postseason, raising concerns about his decision-making under pressure and his attempts to do too much. Despite these challenges, manager Carlos Mendoza has expressed confidence in Alvarez, stating he will remain a key part of the lineup moving forward. Meanwhile, Juan Soto has garnered a Gold Glove nomination despite criticism over his defensive skills, which many find perplexing given his poor fielding metrics. Soto's offensive prowess remains undisputed, but his defensive recognition raises questions about the criteria for such awards in MLB. As the Mets face elite pitching in the playoffs, Alvarez's ability to adapt quickly will be crucial for the team's success.