The Pirates scored two runs in the top of the ninth to earn a come-from-behind win over the Mets, 6-5, and claim a split of the four-game series before the All-Star break.
For most of the year, the Mets were terrific when they scored first, but both losses in this series happened when the Mets took the early lead. This time, the Mets put up five runs in the first inning, thanks to home runs by Francisco Lindor and Michael Conforto.
Unfortunately, this was a bullpen game for the Mets. Aaron Loup did his job, throwing two scoreless frames as the opener. But other relievers allowed six runs in seven innings, including two by Edwin Diaz in the ninth.
The Mets ended their stretch of 33 games in 31 days with a 17-16 record.
It’s only one game and the relievers did not do their part. Would rather have a starter go 5 innings then attempting to throw 5 pitchers out there to win a game. Are any teams very successful with this approach? Again, other than the first inning when it looked like the Mets might run up the score, their offense missed the mark, especially in the bottom of the 8th when an add on run was there for the taking and might have taken some pressure off Diaz. Nice to go into the break with a 4 game lead and we get another crack at the pirates after the break.
Perfect loss to think about for the next five days.
Gut Reaction: After the first inning the Mets started their all-star break vacation…..the Pirates did not…..and the Mets lost one game in the standings. They missed an opportunity and didn’t win the series. They can make immediate amends when they meet the Pirates in the next series.
With all the injuries to key players it is an accomplishment to be a first place by 3.5 games. It is a tribute to Alderson/Scott that they assembled a deep team that didn’t fold.
If they lose the division on the last day by one game, this game will come to mind. Is it worse than trailing 6-0 and scoring only 5 runs and falling short? Yes it is. It’s game the whole team thought they had one. The Pirates, on the other hand, could come back inspired and sweep the Mets in Pittsburg… they believe!