Mets Face Adversity After Tough Loss
The Mets had a strong start to the season, sailing smoothly for the first ten weeks. But, as it often goes in baseball, that couldn’t last forever.
After suffering a significant 9-0 defeat against the Rays, the Mets experienced their first series sweep of the year. This loss was a wake-up call, especially with their rotation missing Kodai Senga. Things went south pretty quickly from there, particularly as the bats remained quiet against Shane Baz.
Griffin Canning’s performance was a key factor in this loss. Control issues plagued him throughout the game; with five walks, wild pitches, and a series of infield hits, he allowed six runs in just 4⅓ innings. It was tough to watch. Meanwhile, Tylor Megill had a rough outing the day before, and Paul Blackburn struggled in relief, leaving the once-reliable pitching staff suddenly uncertain.
Canning had trouble finding his fastball or cutter during the game. Tampa’s runs came in an annoyingly repetitive manner, starting with a series of walks to Jonathan Aranda and Jake Mangum, followed by a single from José Caballero that loaded the bases. A groundout from Cameron Misner and a single from Danny Jansen managed to add to the tally, with all the action occurring on the infield.
After giving up two walks to begin the fifth, Canning was finally yanked from the game. Aranda hit a quick single to advance both runners, highlighting how the outing spiraled out of control.
On the other hand, Baz, who entered the game with a 4.97 ERA, delivered one of his best performances this season, throwing 6⅔ scoreless innings while the Mets barely posed a threat. They only managed to get a runner in scoring position twice, with Pete Alonso striking out to end one inning and grounding into a double play in another. That just added to the collective frustration.
But it wasn’t just Alonso struggling; Brandon Nimmo recorded a single, which ended up being the only hit from the top half of the Mets’ order that day. The Rays, on their end, capitalized on a lackluster performance by the Mets. Mason Montgomery, Eric Orze, and Cole Sulser came in to finish things off seamlessly, while Junior Caminero hit three home runs to further seal the deal.
Now, while “adversity” might feel like a strong word in mid-June—especially with the Mets still sitting in first place—it undeniably highlights a shift. Juan Soto’s performance has been exceptional, but starting Tuesday, the team heads to Atlanta for the first time this season, which is always a tricky matchup for them.
As the Mets’ lead in the division shrinks to 2½ games after the Phillies triumphed over Toronto, one can’t help but wonder what lies ahead against a struggling Atlanta team that has given them issues in recent years. After a tough weekend at home, the question marks surrounding the Mets are becoming more apparent—and harder to ignore.
