The New York Mets struggled to turn early opportunities into runs Tuesday night, dropping a 6-2 decision to the Tampa Bay Rays at Tropicana Field.
Hobart soccer shuts out St. John Fisher Francisco Lindor gave the Mets (62-77) an early spark with a solo home run in the first inning, but New York’s offense went quiet after collecting three hits in the opening frame. The Mets finished 0-for-5 with runners in scoring position, struck out 11 times and did not record another hit after the first inning.
Freddy Peralta, who previously pitched for the Mets, kept New York in check after the first. The right-hander retired 17 of the next 18 batters he faced, allowing only a hit-by-pitch while striking out six. He finished six innings with 74 pitches and left with Tampa holding a four-run advantage.
Sean Manaea struggled to contain the Rays after taking over in the second inning. He surrendered five runs on 11 hits and a walk over 5.2 innings, striking out two. Yandy DÃaz delivered several of the biggest blows, including a solo home run in the sixth inning that traveled 396 feet.
Tampa Bay continued adding to its lead against the Mets’ bullpen, while New York’s offense could not mount a late comeback.
Lindor finished 1-for-3 with a walk and two runs batted in despite committing his 10th error of the season. Bo Bichette and Carson Benge each collected one hit, while Mark Vientos, Francisco Alvarez, and A.J. Ewing were held without a hit.
Nick Morabito, who was called up before the game, was hit by a pitch for the second time in 13 plate appearances with New York this season.
Dylan Ross made his Major League Baseball debut in the seventh inning and tossed a scoreless frame on his birthday.
The Mets and Rays will conclude the series Wednesday at 6:40 p.m. Justin Hagenman is scheduled to make his first start of the season for New York, while Tampa Bay will send Griffin Jax to the mound.
Kyle leads sports coverage and hosts the Concrete Jungle podcast. Have a lead or question? Send it to kyle@fingerlakes1.com.