The New York Mets fell to the Chicago Cubs, 12-4, in the series opener on Friday at Wrigley Field, extending their losing streak to nine games — their longest skid since 2004. Despite showing signs of life at the plate, New York was undone by another rough outing from its pitching staff, as the Cubs jumped out early and never let the Mets back into the game.
Kodai Senga struggled from the start, allowing four runs in the first inning before the Mets responded in the second. New York strung together key hits, highlighted by a two-run single from Tyrone Taylor and an RBI double by Marcus Semien to cut the deficit to one. It marked a notable shift for an offense that had scored just three runs over its previous 39 innings. However, Senga could not build off the momentum, surrendering additional runs in the second and exiting in the fourth inning after allowing seven runs, six earned, on six hits and three walks. His ERA climbed to 8.83.
The game slipped further away after Senga’s departure, as defensive miscues and bullpen struggles allowed Chicago to add on. Huascar Brazoban was hurt by an error that extended an inning, and Sean Manaea later allowed a three-run rally before a late home run put the game out of reach. While the pitching faltered, the Mets’ offense produced 14 hits, with multiple players contributing multi-hit performances, including Francisco Alvarez, who reached base three times.
Still, New York could not capitalize consistently, going 4-for-11 with runners in scoring position.
The Mets will look to end their losing streak on Saturday at 2:20 p.m. with Freddy Peralta on the mound.
Kyle leads sports coverage and hosts the Concrete Jungle podcast. Have a lead or question? Send it to [email protected].