HOUSTON — Manny being Manny isn’t cutting it for the Mets.
After three solid weeks to begin the season, reliever Manny Acosta on Wednesday completed a horrid personal road trip by allowing three earned runs over two innings in the Mets’ 8-1 loss to the Astros.
Acosta made three appearances on the trip and allowed 11 runs over 3 2/3 innings for a 27.00 ERA. His worst performance came in Colorado on Friday, when he surrendered seven earned runs on five hits over one-third of an inning.
“[Acosta] is throwing too hard,” manager Terry Collins said. “He’s overthrowing, and balls are in the middle of the plate. He’s trying way too hard.
“He’s coming off two good years and he’s trying to get it going a little bit. He’s just got to relax and pitch.”
Acosta doesn’t have minor league options remaining, meaning the Mets would risk losing him on waivers if they attempt to send him down.
“My velocity is there — I need concentration on locating my fastball,” Acosta said.
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Lucas Duda was a late scratch from the starting lineup after Collins said he didn’t like what he saw from the right fielder in the batting cage. Kirk Nieuwenhuis was inserted as the left fielder and Scott Hairston moved to right.
Duda has battled flu-like symptoms in recent days and was limited to pinch hitting Monday and Tuesday before sitting idle in the series finale.
Mike Nickeas also has been weakened, but was available to catch if something happened to Josh Thole.
Duda said Thursday’s scheduled off day couldn’t come at a better time.
“I’ll be ready to go Friday, no doubt about it,” Duda said.
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The Mets will host the 10th annual Autism Awareness Day before Sunday’s game against the Diamondbacks at Citi Field.
Events include a pregame party in the Bullpen Plaza with activities including art therapy, provided by the Queens Museum of Art, video games and soccer instruction by Super Soccer Stars.
Tickets are available by calling (718) 507-TIXX.