Introduction to the Mets’ Struggles
The New York Mets have been facing significant challenges in their recent games, particularly in maintaining leads and dealing with injuries to key players. This issue was highlighted in their doubleheader against the Baltimore Orioles, where they failed to secure a win despite initial leads.
The First Game: A Lead Lost
In the first game of the doubleheader, the Mets saw an early lead slip away. Brandon Waddell, in his first career start, managed to navigate a bases-loaded jam in the first inning without conceding any runs. However, the Orioles quickly turned the tables. Baltimore catcher Alex Jackson secured an RBI double in his first at-bat of the season, and 2024 All-Star Jordan Westburg hit a significant home run, giving the Orioles a lead they would not relinquish.
The Orioles’ Victory
The Orioles added four more runs off the Mets’ bullpen, ultimately winning the game 7-3 at Camden Yards. This victory not only swept the doubleheader but also gave the Orioles their only series win of the season against the Mets. The Mets’ record in doubleheaders now stands at 1-5, and they are below .500 in interleague play for 2025.
Impact of Home Runs
Westburg’s home run was particularly significant as it marked the second go-ahead home run of the day for the Orioles, following Gunnar Henderson’s pinch-hit round-tripper in the eighth inning of the first game. The Mets, who had the fewest home runs allowed at the start of the season, have seen this strength deteriorate in July, with 17 home runs given up, fewer than only the Yankees.
Injuries Affecting the Mets
The Mets’ struggles are also compounded by injuries to their starting pitchers. Sean Manaea, who was 12-6 last season with a 3.47 ERA, has been out with a strained oblique. Kodai Senga, who started the season 7-3 with a 1.47 ERA, hasn’t pitched since June 12 due to a hamstring issue. The team’s performance has significantly declined since Senga’s injury, going from a league-best 45-24 to 8-16.
Expected Returns
However, there is a glimmer of hope for the Mets as both Manaea and Senga are expected to return to the mound this weekend in Kansas City, which should give the team a mostly healthy rotation ahead of the All-Star break.
Challenges in the Bullpen
Tylor Megill, who had a promising start in April, has been transferred to the 60-day injured list with elbow inflammation. Paul Blackburn has been out since late June with a right shoulder impingement. The bullpen’s struggles were evident in both games of the doubleheader, with the Mets allowing additional runs in the fifth and sixth innings of the second game.
Offensive Woes
The Mets’ offensive performance was also underwhelming against the Orioles, who have the worst ERA and most home runs allowed in the American League. Despite facing a vulnerable pitching squad, the Mets managed only four runs across the two games, highlighting their ongoing offensive struggles.
Conclusion
The Mets’ inability to maintain leads and their struggles with injuries have significantly impacted their performance. As they head into the second half of the season, addressing these issues will be crucial to turning their season around. The expected return of key pitchers and a focus on stabilizing their bullpen and offense could be the turning points the Mets need.
FAQs
- Q: What was the outcome of the Mets-Orioles doubleheader?
- A: The Orioles swept the doubleheader, winning both games.
- Q: What has been a significant challenge for the Mets in their recent games?
- A: The Mets have struggled with maintaining leads and dealing with injuries to key players.
- Q: When are Sean Manaea and Kodai Senga expected to return?
- A: Both pitchers are expected to return this weekend in Kansas City.
- Q: How have the Mets performed in interleague play?
- A: The Mets are below .500 in interleague play for 2025.
- Q: What has been the impact of injuries on the Mets’ rotation?
- A: Injuries have significantly weakened the Mets’ rotation, affecting their overall performance.
