Mets Aim to Fix Sean Manaea's Arm Slot Issue

Lowered arm angle in 2025 led to career-worst season, but Mets believe they can help Manaea rediscover his 2024 form.

Published on Feb. 27, 2026

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The New York Mets are aware that pitcher Sean Manaea's arm slot dropped too low in 2025, leading to a disastrous season with a 5.64 ERA and only 60.2 innings pitched. The Mets believe Manaea's issues stem from his mechanics and are working to help him regain the higher arm angle that led to a career-best 3.47 ERA and 181.2 innings in 2024. While Manaea struggled with home runs last year, his control and stuff remain effective, giving the Mets hope he can bounce back in 2026.

Why it matters

Manaea's ability to fix his arm slot issue could have a major impact on the Mets' season, as he was expected to be a key part of their starting rotation. If the Mets can help Manaea rediscover his 2024 form, it would provide a significant boost to their pitching staff and playoff aspirations.

The details

According to SNY's John Harper, the Mets believe Manaea lowered his arm angle too much in 2025, which negatively impacted his mechanics and command. Manaea had success with a more side-arm delivery in 2024, but the Mets feel he took that too far last year, leading to his struggles. The Mets are now working with Manaea to find the right balance and get his arm slot back to where it was in 2024, when he had a career-best season.

  • In 2024, Manaea had a 3.47 ERA and threw a career-high 181.2 innings.
  • In 2025, Manaea's ERA ballooned to 5.64 and he threw only 60.2 innings due to injuries.

The players

Sean Manaea

A starting pitcher for the New York Mets who had a career-best season in 2024 but struggled mightily in 2025 due to mechanical issues with his arm slot.

John Harper

A reporter for SNY who reported on the Mets' assessment of Manaea's arm slot problems.

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What they’re saying

“Interesting to hear Mendoza say today the Mets thought Manea lowered his arm angle too much last year, after success with the side-arm delivery in '24. Felt it messed with his mechanics and command. Working to find that '24 arm slot again.”

— John Harper, Reporter (SNY)

What’s next

The Mets will continue working with Manaea throughout spring training to help him rediscover the higher arm slot that led to his success in 2024. His performance in live batting practice will be closely monitored as they look for signs of progress.

The takeaway

The Mets' ability to fix Manaea's mechanical issues and help him regain his 2024 form could be a key factor in determining their success this season. If they can get Manaea back on track, it would provide a major boost to their starting rotation and playoff aspirations.