The New York Mets wrapped up a disastrous weekend in Pittsburgh with a 12-1 loss on Sunday afternoon, suffering their third straight defeat to the Pirates and falling deeper into their June slump.
Frankie Montas couldn’t avoid early damage, surrendering five runs in the first inning alone. After nearly escaping with a slick catch by Brett Baty, Montas gave up a two-run single to Ke’Bryan Hayes, followed by back-to-back homers from Oneil Cruz and Tommy Pham. The veteran right-hander labored through four innings, allowing six earned runs on seven hits while striking out five.
New York’s offense managed little against Pirates starter Mike Burrows, who held them to one run over 4.1 innings. Luis Torrens provided the lone highlight with a solo home run to right, his second of the season, and added another hit later to give the Mets rare production behind the plate.
The bullpen didn’t fare any better. Richard Lovelady was tagged for two runs in relief, including Bryan Reynolds’ solo homer. Dedniel Núñez gave up Cruz’s second blast of the game in the seventh, and with the game out of reach, outfielder Travis Jankowski pitched the eighth, allowing two more runs.
New York’s top bats remained cold. Francisco Lindor, Brandon Nimmo, Juan Soto, and Pete Alonso combined for just two hits in 15 at-bats.
After an off day Monday, the Mets (48-37) return to Citi Field hoping to regroup against the Milawukee Brewers (47-36). Clay Holmes will take the mound on Tuesday night opposite Freddy Peralta.
Kyle leads sports coverage and hosts the Concrete Jungle podcast. Have a lead or question? Send it to [email protected].