The New York Mets’ postseason chances took a major hit on Sunday with a 3-2 loss to the Washington Nationals at Citi Field, a game that ended with a potential game-tying home run being pulled back in dramatic fashion.
Francisco Alvarez led off the ninth with a deep drive to left-center, but Nationals center fielder Jacob Young made a leaping catch at the wall to preserve the lead. It was Young’s second highlight-reel grab of the day and effectively ended the Mets’ comeback hopes.
With the loss, and the Cincinnati Reds win over the Chicago Cubs, the Mets dropped out of the third National League wild-card spot. The teams are now tied, but the Reds hold the tiebreaker.
Sean Manaea, making his first start in over a week, lasted just three innings and allowed three runs, all in the second. A misplay by shortstop Francisco Lindor led to one run, followed by a two-run homer from Nasim Nuñez.
New York responded with an RBI single by Cedric Mullins in the bottom of the inning and a solo home run from Lindor in the sixth, his 28th of the season. But the Mets struggled in key spots, going scoreless over the final three innings.
Mark Vientos was ejected in the sixth after arguing a called third strike with two men on. Clay Holmes pitched 3.2 scoreless innings in relief.
Box Score | NL Wild Card Standings
Next, the Mets (80-76) head to Chicago to for a three-game series against the Cubs that begins on Tuesday at 7:40 p.m.
Kyle leads sports coverage and hosts the Concrete Jungle podcast. Have a lead or question? Send it to kyle@fingerlakes1.com.