The New York Mets took an early lead Thursday afternoon but could not hold it, falling 3-1 to the Texas Rangers in the final game of their three-game series at Globe Life Field.
Francisco Lindor started the scoring with a first-inning double before Carson Benge followed with a single to right field, bringing Lindor home. Benge finished 1-for-4 and drove in his 63rd run of the season.
Benge entered the game leading the Mets in batting average at .275, runs with 83, on-base percentage at .338 and slugging percentage at .420. He also remained one home run away from becoming the first Mets rookie to finish a season with at least 20 home runs and 20 stolen bases.
The lead did not last long. Justin Foscue opened the bottom of the first with a single before Josh Jung launched a two-run home run to left field, putting Texas ahead. Jung finished 3-for-3 and accounted for half of the Rangers’ six hits.
Zac Thornton kept the Mets within striking distance in his 15th start of the season. The rookie allowed two runs on four hits, walked one and struck out four over five innings. Two of the four hits came from Jung.
The Mets bullpen gave New York a chance to rally. Jeffrey Yan recorded two outs in the sixth before Austin Warren entered and struck out two over 1.1 innings. Jack Weisenburger worked the eighth, allowing one hit and one walk while striking out one.
New York also made several strong defensive plays. Luis Torrens threw out Wyatt Langford attempting to steal second in the second inning and later helped catch Jake Burger in a rundown. The Mets also turned a double play in the eighth.
Brandon Nimmo drew a walk and struck out in his final game against his former team.
The Mets now head to Washington, D.C., for their final series of the regular season against the Nationals, beginning Friday at 6:45 p.m.
Kyle leads sports coverage and hosts the Concrete Jungle podcast. Have a lead or question? Send it to kyle@fingerlakes1.com.