The New York Mets (22-32) dropped their fourth consecutive game Monday evening, falling 7-2 to the Cincinnati Reds (28-25) at Citi Field as Nolan McLean endured another difficult outing and the offense continued to sputter. New York’s losing streak grew after McLean allowed seven runs before the fourth inning ended, while the Mets went hitless in key scoring situations yet again.
McLean looked sharp early, striking out the side in the first inning, but the Reds quickly turned momentum. Cincinnati pushed across two runs in the second after a hit batter, a walk and a wild pitch helped fuel the rally. The right-hander nearly escaped the third unharmed before JJ Bleday drilled a two-out solo homer to extend the lead.
Things unraveled completely in the fourth. Spencer Steer lined an RBI single up the middle before Tyler Stephenson launched a two-run homer to make it 7-0. McLean exited after 3.1 innings, allowing seven earned runs on five hits while striking out six. The rookie has now surrendered 13 earned runs across his last two starts, raising his ERA to 4.40.
The Mets’ offense again failed to capitalize on opportunities, finishing 0-for-6 with runners in scoring position while stranding eight runners. Marcus Semien provided New York’s first run with a solo homer in the sixth, and Brett Baty later scored on a Carson Benge groundout in the seventh. Bichette finished 3-for-4 in the loss.
The Mets continue their three-game series against the Reds on Tuesday with first pitch scheduled for 7:10 p.m. New York has not yet announced a starter, while Cincinnati will send Chase Burns (6-1, 1.83 ERA) to the mound.
Kyle leads sports coverage and hosts the Concrete Jungle podcast. Have a lead or question? Send it to kyle@fingerlakes1.com.