Mets Facing Tough Road Ahead

After holding a playoff position since April 5th, the Mets woke up on Monday to find themselves behind the Reds in the standings. With just six games left, there’s a growing sense of unease as they embark on a final road trip, first facing the Cubs in Chicago on Tuesday and then heading to Miami to wrap up the season.

For over three months, they’ve been among the least successful teams in the league, losing 11 of their last 15 games. As their playoff chances diminish, they now need to contend with a Cubs squad that’s secured its postseason berth and a formidable Marlins team that’s been on a winning streak.

While the Mets excelled at home, they’ve struggled significantly on the road, finishing with a poor 31-44 record away from home. They recently ended a road trip with six straight losses, which is definitely not something to be proud of.

“There’s work right in front of me,” Pete Alonso commented after their latest setback against Washington on Sunday. “We need to focus and leave everything on the field in these last six games.”

Unfortunately, that focus hasn’t shown itself in recent performances, especially since a strong start to the season.

Since June 13, the Mets have recorded a dismal 35-52 record, trailing only the Nationals in overall performance. This downturn has followed a promising start of 45-24—the best in the majors at the time.

Despite the challenges, the Mets were in a decent spot as of September 5th, tied with San Diego for the second wildcard position in the National League. However, four losses against the Reds and two in Philadelphia have set them back.

Even with some victories recently against Texas, San Diego, and Washington, their playoff hopes are in jeopardy after losing consecutive home games to Washington.

“We just have to win,” Alonso stated bluntly. “It’s simple. Winning now resolves everything.”

As they gear up for Tuesday’s game at Wrigley Field, David Peterson will take the mound, facing Chicago rookies Jonaton and Nolan McLean, along with Miami’s Brandon Sprote thereafter.

“We can turn it on in a flash,” Brandon Nimmo said on Sunday. “We need to enjoy this moment, remember not everyone gets to play in the playoffs, and look at it positively.”

The road to another NLCS seems unlikely. With the memory of last year’s playoff run fading, and the risk of a historic collapse looming, the Mets have less than a week to salvage their season.

“I’ll give it everything I’ve got,” Sean Manaea said. “We have to believe we can do it.”