The New York Mets return home to Citi Field for a Sunday matchup against the Los Angeles Angels with growing momentum and a renewed sense of identity as the second half of the season unfolds. Powered by a strong July performance and buoyed by excellent home splits, the Mets continue to climb in the NL standings behind a resurgent offense and a bullpen that has found its rhythm. David Peterson is scheduled to take the mound for New York, bringing with him a left-handed presence that has often stymied opposing teams’ lineups, especially ones like the Angels, who have struggled significantly against southpaws. Peterson has been sharp in recent outings, commanding his sinker-slider mix with confidence and showing the ability to work deep into games without letting innings unravel. He benefits from improved infield defense and a Mets offense that has become more opportunistic, anchored by Francisco Lindor’s leadership and power, and consistently boosted by key contributions from Pete Alonso and Brandon Nimmo. Alonso continues to deliver in high-leverage spots, hitting with authority and showing better plate discipline in recent weeks, while Nimmo sets the tone at the top of the lineup with his patience and speed.

Starling Marte’s return to full health adds another dimension to a Mets team that can now threaten both with power and basepath aggression, and the team’s recent ability to extend innings with two-out hits has made them a dangerous opponent in any ballpark. The bullpen, once a point of concern, now features a reliable back end with Edwin Díaz closing out games and Brooks Raley and Adam Ottavino providing matchup flexibility in the later innings. Manager Carlos Mendoza has juggled his bullpen arms effectively and hasn’t been afraid to make aggressive in-game adjustments, often pulling the right levers in critical situations. Defensively, the Mets rank near the top of the league in double plays turned and have one of the highest defensive efficiency ratings in the National League, which should help counter any pressure the Angels may try to apply through contact and speed. Playing at Citi Field, the Mets have fed off the energy of their home crowd and have consistently started fast in games, often scoring in the first three innings and forcing opposing pitchers into early jams. Against the Angels’ Kyle Hendricks, who has struggled to contain lineups with patient, power-hitting bats, the Mets are likely to employ a disciplined approach, working deep counts and forcing mistakes over the plate. With postseason aspirations still within reach, every game at home carries added weight, and this matchup against a sub-.500 Angels team presents an opportunity to solidify their position. If the Mets continue to do what they’ve done best—throw strikes, play crisp defense, and capitalize on scoring chances—they should have a strong chance to control the tempo of the game and secure another key win in front of their fans.