The New York Mets (19-9) jumped out to an early five-run lead and led by six runs in the seventh, but couldn’t hold on, falling 8-7 to the Washington Nationals (13-15) on Sunday afternoon in D.C. after another bullpen meltdown.
New York went 3-for-6 with runners in scoring position early but failed to tack on late, missing key chances in the seventh and ninth innings. The Nationals, meanwhile, erased a six-run deficit with a five-run seventh and two-run ninth.
With Edwin Díaz unavailable, Ryne Stanek tried to close it out but gave up the tying and winning runs, including a throwing error by Pete Alonso that allowed Washington to walk it off. It was Stanek’s second blown save of the series.
Tylor Megill pitched six strong innings before sun and wind troubles led to a shaky seventh. José Butto and the bullpen couldn’t stop the bleeding, with a three-run homer by Riley Adams cutting the Mets’ lead to one.
Despite multi-hit games from Luis Torrens, Mark Vientos, and Juan Soto, New York couldn’t cash in late opportunities. Soto finished 2-for-3 with two walks, while Torrens drove in two runs.
The Mets will try to split the four-game series Monday at 4:05 p.m., with Griffin Canning facing Trevor Williams.
Kyle leads sports coverage and hosts the Concrete Jungle podcast. Have a lead or question? Send it to [email protected].