Mets Winning Streak Ends At Nine; Drop Finale To Reds

The New York Mets entered Sunday with a slim one-game lead in the race for the third wild card spot and aimed to extend their winning streak to ten while securing a series sweep. However, their offense stalled, and the Cincinnati Reds took advantage late in the game, winning 3-1 and snapping the Mets’ hot streak.

To compound matters, the Braves edged out the Blue Jays in extra innings, leaving both teams tied for the final wild Card position.

Pitching dominated much of the afternoon. Mets starter Luis Severino was sharp, going 6 2/3 innings with eight strikeouts, allowing just five hits and one run. On the other side, Julian Aguiar kept the Mets off the scoreboard over his 4 2/3 innings, surrendering only two hits. The bullpens were equally effective, as neither side allowed a run until the ninth inning.

The Mets’ offense struggled, managing only a single run driven in from Starling Marte in the sixth inning. They left seven runners on base and went just 1-for-6 with runners in scoring position. The game remained tied heading into the ninth, where Phil Maton took the mound to preserve the deadlock. With Edwin Díaz unavailable after pitching on consecutive days, Maton faltered.

The Reds seized the opportunity when Maton hit Spencer Steer with a pitch. Ty France followed with a single, putting runners on first and second. Jake Fraley then grounded out to move the runners to second and third, setting the stage for Santiago Espinal, who delivered a clutch double, driving in both Steer and France to give Cincinnati a 3-1 lead.

Alexis Díaz closed out the game with two strikeouts, securing his 26th save and ending the Mets’ nine-game winning streak.

Statistic of the Day: Edwin Díaz Unavailable

After pitching two days in a row, Edwin Díaz was unavailable to pitch in the rubber match. Due to this, Mets manager Carlos Mendoza was forced to use Phil Maton. Although Maton has been generally reliable as a high-leverage guy, Mendoza’s decision to use Diaz came back to bite him as Maton struggled and gave up the game late.

Player of the Game: Luis Severino

The Mets got another strong start from the resurgent Luis Severino. He was sharp, going 6 2/3 innings with eight strikeouts, allowing just five hits and one run. In 15 home starts this season, he’s been solid and owns a 2.86 ERA at Citi Field.

On Deck

The Mets are right back at it as they fly up to the Great White North to Toronto to face the Blue Jays. Paul Blackburn (5-4, 4.66 ERA) makes his return to the mound after his injury, while the Blue Jays have yet to announce a starter for tomorrow’s game.

First pitch is at 7:07 pm ET and will be broadcast on SNY and Mets Radio 880 AM.

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