Carson Benge delivered a go-ahead RBI double to lift the New York Mets to a 3-2 victory in the opener before Christian Scott turned in his longest start of the season in a tough-luck 1-0 loss as New York split a Wednesday doubleheader with the Atlanta Braves at Citi Field. The split left the Mets at 46-63, while the Braves moved to 63-45.
The Mets rallied late to claim Game 1 behind another strong showing from their young core. A.J. Ewing reached base three times, stole two bases and scored the winning run after drawing a seventh-inning walk. Benge followed by ripping a double into the right-field corner to put New York ahead for good. Francisco Alvarez continued his hot stretch with an RBI double in the fifth, while Sean Manaea worked through traffic for six innings, allowing two runs on five hits. Huascar Brazoban, Luke Weaver, and Devin Williams combined for three scoreless innings to close out the win.
Game 2 belonged to the pitchers. Scott completed six innings for the first time in his major league career, allowing one run on five hits while striking out seven. The lone run came in the sixth when Matt Olson’s RBI single scored Jim Jarvis, though Scott escaped a bases-loaded jam to keep the Mets within striking distance. A.J. Minter and Cionel Perez each followed with scoreless relief, and Benge added a highlight-reel diving catch in right field to rob Ronald Acuña Jr. of a hit.
The Mets’ offense, however, had no answer for Chris Sale, who struck out nine over six scoreless innings while allowing just two hits. Raisel Iglesias retired the top of New York’s lineup in order in the ninth to seal Atlanta’s victory.
The Mets continue their homestand Thursday when they open a series against the Miami Marlins at Citi Field. First pitch is scheduled for 7:10 p.m., with Nolan McLean (3.32 ERA) set to face Miami right-hander Eury Perez (3.56 ERA).
Kyle leads sports coverage and hosts the Concrete Jungle podcast. Have a lead or question? Send it to kyle@fingerlakes1.com.