The New York Mets (17-19) fell into a big hole and could not climb out of it as they fell 7-6 to the Cincinnati Reds (15-20) in the series opener on Tuesday night at Great American Ball Park.
Cincinnati led 7-1 after five innings before New York scored five runs over the next three innings to make it a one-run game heading into the ninth. However, the Mets went down in order against Reds closer Alexis Díaz to end the contest.
Francisco Álvarez blasted two home runs, his second and third of the season. Pete Alonso crushed his 12th, while Francisco Lindor added his sixth.
David Peterson started in place of Max Scherzer, who was scratched with neck spasms. The lefty surrendered four runs on seven hits over 3 1/3 innings.
The Mets will try to snap their three-game skid on Wednesday at 6:40 p.m. Justin Verlander will get the start.
Kyle leads sports coverage and hosts the Concrete Jungle podcast. Have a lead or question? Send it to [email protected].