The New York Mets didn’t start their season on the right foot, falling 3-1 to the Houston Astros on Thursday afternoon at Daikin Park.
Trailing 3-0 in the ninth, the Mets loaded the bases against Houston’s elite closer Josh Hader but couldn’t capitalize. Hayden Senger struck out, Francisco Lindor brought in a run with a sacrifice fly, and Juan Soto, despite working a 3-0 count, chased a slider out of the zone for a game-ending strikeout.
New York managed six hits, five of them singles, but struggled with runners in scoring position, going 0-for-6 and leaving 10 men on base.
Clay Holmes, converted to a starter, allowed three runs on five hits over 4.2 innings, walking four and striking out four. Huascar Brazobán and Danny Young followed with scoreless relief appearances.
The Mets and Astros will continue their three-game series on Friday at 8:10 p.m.
Kyle leads sports coverage and hosts the Concrete Jungle podcast. Have a lead or question? Send it to [email protected].