SAN FRANCISCO — Devin Williams has kept drama to a minimum to begin his Mets career, but he knows there is room for improvement.
The Mets closer began Thursday without allowing an earned run — and yielding only one hit — over three innings in his first three appearances, striking out four and walking two.
“I’m getting good results, at least,” said Williams who did not pitch in the Mets’ 7-2 loss to the Giants. “I have some room for improvement with my command and my changeup and with my fastball, so I think just getting reps is going to help that.”
Williams pitched a shutout frame Wednesday in the Mets’ 2-1, 11-inning loss to the Cardinals.
Manager Carlos Mendoza noted there are no restrictions on Williams pitching back-to-back days this early in the season.
The right-hander began throwing a cutter in spring training but has yet to deploy it in the regular season.
“I’m in a good spot with it,” Williams said. “It’s there if I need it.”
Jorge Polanco is “close” to returning to play first base, according to Mendoza.
Polanco, who was the DH for the fourth time in seven games, has dealt with left Achilles discomfort in recent days.
“Just wanted to give him an extra day [at DH],” Mendoza said. “He continues to feel better and progress. I might need that DH spot in the upcoming days for some other guys and that is why we’re taking advantage of the extra day here for him to DH.”
Mark Vientos started Thursday at first base for a second straight game.
The Mets began the day with 55 runners left on base, tied for the most with the Astros.
As a team, the Mets were 11-for-68 (.162) with runners in scoring position, ranking 29th in MLB.
The Reds were the only team worse in such situations.
This marks just the second time in franchise history the Mets played extra innings in three of their first six games. It last occurred in 1991.
Mendoza noted the strain it has placed on the bullpen, which needed to record 15 extra outs in the first week.
