The New York Mets are out in deep water, paddling toward the trade deadline in a leaky canoe patched together with duct tape, dreams, and the occasional Luis To

After an extended stretch of poor performance, the Mets decided it was time to challenge Alvarez, unexpectedly demoting him to the minor leagues. It doesn’t take much to motivate Alvarez. Like the Energizer bunny, the 23-year-old is constantly on the move, pouring all of his energy into whatever task he’s doing.

Mets manager Carlos Mendoza shared insight on a few topics before Saturday's game against the Reds at Citi Field.