Mets extend losing streak to five as old issues resurface in heavy defeat to Phillies

Philadelphia-Mets Wildcard Situation Unchanged, But Woes Continue

The Mets are still in the wildcard race, but their recent performance has been far from encouraging.

Once a team that could hold their own, they’ve stumbled significantly lately, especially with their fifth consecutive loss, a crushing 11-3 defeat against the Phillies. This game laid bare several issues that are plaguing the team right now, including a lack of effective pitching and struggles from veteran starters.

Despite this rough patch, the Mets haven’t dropped too far in the wildcard standings. Thanks to the Giants’ recent loss, they still hold the final playoff spot in the National League, albeit just two games ahead.

There’s still room for the Mets (76-70) to get back on track, secure a wildcard, and head into October with some momentum. However, it’s hard to shake off the feeling that they’re far from their earlier form, when they had a 45-24 record on June 12. They’ve had some disappointing showings lately, particularly a series at Citizens Bank Park, where they were outscored 21-6.

Once capable of explosive offensive performances, the team has underwhelmed during this losing streak. Against the likes of Cristopher Sánchez, who effectively pitched six innings with just one run allowed, the lineup has struggled to make an impact. Top pitchers like Hunter Green and Aaron Nola have also contained them, holding the Mets to just three runs across 25 innings.

This offensive silence has often put the game out of reach early, which was once again the case on Wednesday.

Clay Holmes had a tough start, throwing 29 pitches in the first inning and allowing two runs, putting the Mets in a quick two-run deficit.

They finally got on the board in the fourth inning when Juan Soto doubled, moved to third on a single from Pete Alonso, and then scored on a hit from Starling Marte. But aside from a solo home run from Soto in the eighth and a late meaningless run, the Mets’ offense was largely non-existent.

After a string of quiet innings, the Phillies capitalized in the fifth with key hits, pushing further ahead. Gregory Soto came in but struggled, allowing multiple runs, further deepening the Mets’ woes.

The sixth inning saw the Phillies add four more runs as the Mets’ defensive mistakes piled up. Harrison Bader and Kyle Schwarber took advantage of the Mets’ missteps, leading to even more damage.