Let’s look away from the competition for the fifth spot for a minute. Jose Butto is making a strong case for a permanent place at the top of the New York Mets’ rotation. The 26-year-old right-hander put on a great show on Sunday. His tossing six scoreless innings and striking out a career-high nine batters led the Mets to a 2-1 victory over the Kansas City Royals.

This wasn’t Butto’s first rodeo. He has shown impressive performances even in spring training. However, he ultimately lost out to Tylor Megill. But now, with Megill and Kodai Senga temporarily sidelined due to injuries, Butto is seizing his moment.

Jose Butto does justice to the role of an ace

Coach Carlos Mendoza spoke about Jose Butto as he acknowledged that Senga’s absence would be extended, hence “He’s gonna get another opportunity. He’ll get his chance and it’s good to see somebody stepping up and taking advantage of it.” It seems like Butto’s performance caught Mendoza’s attention.

Well, taking advantage might be an understatement. He’s crushing it, rather. Butto mowed down the Royals, striking out the side in the first inning. Moreover, he allowed just two hits all through his outing. The outing was a cherry on top, considering the occasion. The Mets’ celebration of Dwight “Doc” Gooden, with his number 16 being retired.

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Butto said after the game, “I have a lot of confidence right now. I just have to continue to keep working.” It is this unwavering work ethic that Mendoza admires about Butto. It is commendable how, despite losing the spring training battle, Butto never wavered. Speaking of spring training, a few anecdotes come to mind. 

Garnering Praises From Coach Carlos Mendoza: A Good Sign?

Mendoza recalled, “He came into camp ready to compete. In our first conversation, he knew there was a competition, and he threw the ball well.” That said, it is granted that the competition may be gone, but Butto’s spirit remains intact. He doesn’t shy away from hitters. After all, Mendoza said. “He’s gonna to attack hitters.”

Butto’s resilience, though he was sent back to Triple-A Syracuse after a strong spring training, also impressed his coach. “Dealing with adversity and not making the team out of spring training, he put his head down, continued to work, wait for his turn, and that’s what he’s doing,” Mendoza said proudly. “Here he is.” Indeed, he is here to stay, at least for now.