Carson Benge delivered the best game of his young career as the New York Mets defeated the San Diego Padres 7-3 on Sunday afternoon at Petco Park. The victory helped the Mets improve to 29-36, earn a series win and finish their West Coast trip on a positive note, while the Padres fell to 33-31.
After managing just two runs in Saturday’s loss, New York’s offense came alive with 13 hits and four walks. Benge led the charge, going 5-for-5 while finishing a double shy of the cycle. The rookie set the tone from the leadoff spot with three singles, a home run and a triple, continuing his impressive recent stretch.
The Mets received contributions throughout the lineup. Marcus Semien opened the second inning with his eighth homer of the season, while Bo Bichette stayed hot with another multi-hit performance and scored during a key fifth-inning rally. MJ Melendez also made an impact on both sides of the ball, robbing extra bases with a diving catch before adding a solo homer in the sixth.
Sean Manaea helped New York maintain control, retiring eight straight batters at one point and allowing two runs on four hits across four innings. San Diego threatened in the fourth with three consecutive hits, including a two-run homer by Freddy Fermin, but Fernando Tatis Jr. was thrown out attempting to steal third to end the inning and limit further damage.
Brooks Raley, A.J. Minter, and Luke Weaver combined for three scoreless innings out of the bullpen before Devin Williams closed out the win. A.J. Ewing also contributed with a highlight-reel catch in left-center field and extended his hitting streak to five games.
The Mets return home Tuesday to begin a six-game homestand against the St. Louis Cardinals. First pitch is scheduled for 7:10 p.m. at Citi Field. Freddy Peralta is expected to start for New York against Dustin May.
Kyle leads sports coverage and hosts the Concrete Jungle podcast. Have a lead or question? Send it to kyle@fingerlakes1.com.
