Mets’ Jose Ciri Faces Tough Night in Home Game Against Nationals

It took just seven games for the crowd at Citi Field to express their discontent with Jose Ciri.

The Mets’ center fielder, who had a challenging season due to a broken foot, made his seventh home appearance on Friday. Unfortunately, he was often met with boos as the Mets triumphed over the Nationals 12-6, largely due to a few misplays on his part and some underwhelming numbers.

“He didn’t have a good day,” remarked coach Carlos Mendoza about Ciri.

Ciri’s performance was marred by a rough outing, including a poor throw from Brandon Sproat to first base that resulted in a run scored. With two outs and runners on base, Josh Bell made a line drive to left-center, and Ciri reached for it—but, to everyone’s dismay, he let it slip through his hands, which turned into an RBI double for Bell.

“He went a long way for that ball, got there and dropped it,” Mendoza commented.

Following that, Daylen Lile hit a line drive to center. Ciri made an attempt to cut it off, but the ball sailed past him and rolled to the wall, resulting in another RBI triple.

Mendoza highlighted the issue, saying, “The poor route,” as the crowd’s frustration redirected toward Ciri.

Despite possessing impressive speed, power, and a strong throwing arm, Ciri struggled defensively on Friday. His offensive consistency has been lacking throughout his career, which undoubtedly complicates matters.

After enduring a tibia injury back in April, perhaps he is still finding his footing. Ciri had recently participated in eight rehab games and showed promise, with a solid performance of 12 hits and nine strikeouts in four games. However, it might take some time before he’s back to form.

The boos continued with each at-bat, culminating in a strikeout that started with a pitch clock violation against him. The atmosphere was definitely tense.

“I know that can be difficult, right?” Mendoza reflected on his conversation with Ciri. “But I don’t think I should have to keep competing with you while you bow your head. That was my message to him.”

Ciri’s batting appeared to be better when the Nationals started with left-hander Andrew Alvarez, but it seems Cedric Mullins, who is showing signs of improvement, has become Mendoza’s favored choice against right-handed pitchers.

Mullins experienced his own share of boos in Queens but was met with applause when he pinch-hit in the eighth, effectively replacing Ciri. It seems the center field position is becoming a major concern for the Mets, who are hesitant to regularly slot Jeff McNeill there.