Mets denied game-tying homer in the ninth and lose series to Nationals

Mets’ Playoff Hopes Diminish After Loss to Nationals

The Mets find themselves in a precarious situation. They must reach the playoffs and win the wildcard round to play again at Citi Field this season. It’s possible, sure, but there’s also a chance they might end their season in Miami, where their last game is scheduled for next Sunday.

The reality of that scenario loomed closer after a tough 3-2 loss to the Nationals, prompting the Mets to closely monitor other games, particularly those involving the Reds. This defeat has reduced their lead over Cincinnati in the race for the final wildcard spot to just half a game, with the Reds set to face the Cubs later on.

If the Reds win, the Mets will officially be on alert, as Cincinnati holds the tiebreaker over them.

In what was a pivotal moment, Jacob Young’s stunning catch in left-center field preserved the lead for the Nationals. He snagged a ball that seemed destined for a hit, robbing Francisco Alvarez in a crucial ninth inning.

This marks the second day in a row where the Mets have struggled offensively against the Nationals, a team that is set to finish at the bottom of the NL East. Over the final two series against them, the Mets managed just two wins out of six games.

Sean Manaea returned to the starting rotation after a bullpen appearance last week but lasted only three innings. Clay Holmes came in, pitching 3²/₃ scoreless innings. This was an improvement after Manaea had left him in a tough spot previously.

Manaea faced challenges early, falling into a 3-0 hole within two innings. Jorge Alfaro hit a double and later, Deiren Lyle scored from base after Francisco Lindor made a strong cutoff. Nasim Nuñez extended the Nationals’ lead with a two-run homer that cleared the left-field fence.

Despite this, the Mets made a push in the bottom of the inning, narrowing the gap to 3-1. Cedric Mullins contributed with an RBI single following a leadoff double by Lewis Torrens. However, the situation became tense when Mullins’ slip on the sidewall caused an injury timeout, forcing him to return to first base after being initially thrown out at second.

Unfortunately for the Mets, they couldn’t capitalize on their scoring opportunities. Lindor’s double play ended any hopes of a big inning. Juan Soto followed with a double, making it to third base afterward.

Young’s impressive catch at center field denied Brett Batty, marking his fifth extra-base hit. Lindor later cut the Nationals’ lead to 3-2 with his 28th homer of the season, joining Soto and Pete Alonso as players with at least 30 home runs.

Mark Vientos was ejected after expressing frustration over a called check swing that ended the sixth inning with two runners on base. He didn’t take the ejection lightly, visibly upset and slamming his bat on the ground.