TORONTO — Luis Severino has just completed his pregame routine on a sunny Wednesday in Toronto. This was a straightforward day for the right-hander as he gets ready for his 29th and most crucial start of the season, which will take place on Saturday in Philadelphia.
Severino’s emergence as a dependable option in the Mets’ rotation has been a key factor in the strength of New York’s starting staff. The rotation ERA currently ranks sixth in the National League with 16 games left in the season.
Severino is scheduled to start four of the remaining 16 games, facing the first-place Phillies twice, rival Atlanta once, and potentially the season finale against the first-place Milwaukee Brewers. Few Mets players are as important as Severino as they push towards the end of the season.
Up to this point, Severino has had a successful season.
“I haven’t felt this good in a long time,” Severino says with a smile. “It’s been really great to compete at this level and stay healthy for the entire year.”
To gain insight into Severino’s approach before and during a start, The Athletic sat down with him, using a scorecard to analyze his last start against the Cincinnati Reds. In that game, a 3-1 loss, Severino pitched 6 2/3 innings and conceded one run, marking the 12th quality start of his season.
Let’s dive into Severino’s mindset at this crucial juncture of the season.
Pregame
Severino faced the Reds earlier in the season on April 6, where he went five innings, allowing two runs (one earned) on three hits. His main focus from that game was the two walks he issued and the need to limit such free passes in the upcoming game against Cincinnati.
Severino’s pre-start preparation involves extensive video analysis, studying the strengths and weaknesses of opposing hitters and their recent at-bats against similar pitchers. He focuses on pitch sequences, especially what hitters look for when behind in the count.
For example, Severino mentions Miami’s Edward Cabrera, who had a successful outing against the Phillies, as a comparable pitcher in terms of arm angle and pitch repertoire.
Severino then combines his scouting report with input from his catcher, in this case, Luis Torrens, to develop a game plan tailored to face the Reds.
The upcoming game presents a specific challenge for Severino as he highlights the Reds’ aggressive baserunning approach, emphasizing the need to be quick to the plate to prevent runners from advancing.
First inning
Severino opens the game by pitching to Jonathan India, the Reds’ leadoff batter, using a mix of fastball, sweeper, and sinker to set the tone. Severino aims to establish both his sinker and sweeper early in the game to keep hitters off balance.
He proceeds to retire the side in order in the first inning, showcasing his command and pitch variety.