Jacob deGrom was very good in his return to the mound but neither the “B” relievers nor the offense did much to further the cause, as the Mets had their seven-game win streak snapped with a 5-1 loss to the Nationals Tuesday night in Washington.
Some wondered if deGrom would try to ease off the gas pedal in an effort to stay healthy but the third pitch of the game registered 102 mph, which should put that idea to rest. deGrom struck out the first two batters of the game and finished with a line of 5 IP, 3 H, 1 ER, 0 BB and 6 Ks in the 59-pitch outing,
Francisco Lindor homered in the top of the sixth inning, ensuring that deGrom would finish with a no-decision.
While Lindor tied the game, the Nationals jumped Stephen Nogosek and Yoan Lopez for four runs in two innings, thanks to three home runs.
After their plethora of baserunners the last few games, the Mets managed just six hits and a walk. They had the bases loaded in the first inning but did not score. And their other opportunity was with runners on second and third in the seventh with one out but that one ended when Luis Guillorme was doubled off second on Brandon Nimmo’s line drive to short.
The game was the continuation of a lackluster day for the organization. The flop on deadline day to add a lefty reliever seemed to be a precursor to the flop on the field to get a clutch hit. Neither is easy but both were needed. Kind of wonder where the more established arms of the bullpen were tonight and Buck started with his worst first followed by his second worst. Was it another case of Buck overthinking the process and overmanaging because he felt the Nationals had no offensive firepower left? Where was Hunter? Where was Lugo? Can’t wait for May to get back.
DeGrom looks ready but let’s see if he can go on normal rest and take on the Braves in five days. Somehow, I wouldn’t be surprised if he could not.
It was a very encouraging first outing by a Jake. Yes sadly it was the same old story about not scoring runs for him. It will be interesting to see if they bring up Alvarez and Vientos before the end of the month to make them eligible for the playoffs. I think it was more disappointing seeing the flurry of good bullpen arms changing teams with us making one little dent in that area. Seems we made some 2015 like moves with role players except for not landing a game changer. Fully believe in Cohen’s 3-5 year plan and building a perennial contender, but we are clearly in the mix of top teams and could win it this year. It was a nice win for the Gnats fans after what had to be a really bad day for them. Bassitt for the series win today. Slow and steady wins the race.
That’s no longer the rule for postseason eligibility. As long as the player is on either the 40-man roster or the 60-day IL by the end of the day on 8/31 – they’re eligible for the playoff roster.
Vientos is already on the 40-man and there’s several guys the Mets could cut to get Alvarez on there in time to be eligible for the postseason.
Gut Reaction: Nogosek was no good-sek and Lopez either. deGrom was good though and that is all that matters. Givens and May should fortify the bullpen. The offense was flat, relief pitching was horrible and the winning streak was ended. Win today and take the series. LGM