Mets Miss Chance to Snap Losing Streak vs Red Sox

Thornton Shines in Third Start

New York came within three outs of salvaging the finale of a three‑game set against Boston. Zach Thornton pitched brilliantly in what was only his third major‑league appearance and looked set for his first career win. The young right‑hander held the Red Sox at bay, but a late defensive lapse thwarted the upset bid. The Mets still left the ballpark wanting after the game slipped away.

Lindor’s Double and Dimeric Disaster

Francisco Lindor drove in both New York runs, launching a first‑inning double and a solo home run in the sixth. The shortstop’s error on a routine grounder—bounced hard off his glove and wrist—opened the door for Boston to rally. “The ball ate me up,” Lindor said, “I just didn’t make the play. It’s unacceptable.” The miscue erased a potential double‑play and changed the game’s momentum.

Williams’ Blown Save and ERA Concerns

Devin Williams entered the ninth with a chance to close out the contest but issued back‑to‑back walks, loading the bases. Jarren Duran later tied the game with a shallow single, and a subsequent lineout double play only delayed the inevitable. The loss marks Williams’ third blown save of the season, pushing his earned‑run average to 4.83. After a luminous June where he posted a 0.96 ERA, the right‑hander has fizzled to a 10.80 ERA across four July outings.

Interim manager Andy Green expressed confidence in keeping Williams as the closer, citing experience and past success. “Devin’s done it for so long and he’s done it really, really well,” Green noted, emphasizing that the team’s defensive lapses contributed to the collapse. Despite the setback, Green sees no reason to move the veteran reliever from the ninth inning.

Mets’ Struggles and Second‑Half Outlook

New York finished the first half at 40‑57, a record that underscores a lost season. The club was swept in the series, leaving them with a daunting task to reverse fortunes over the final 65 games. The upcoming contest against the Philadelphia Phillies will be a true test of whether the Mets can ignite a turnaround.

Lindor acknowledges the needed improvement, stating, “I gotta be better, I gotta execute. Pitchers are executing and I just gotta finish the play for them.” His .216/.298/.373 slash line in 40 games reflects a steep decline for a two‑time Gold Glove winner. The clubhouse’s morale is low, but the team plans to use the All‑Star break as a reset point.

What the Loss Means Going Forward

The missed opportunity against Boston highlights how small mistakes can define a season for a rebuilding roster. Even with promising debut performances like Thornton’s, consistency on defense remains a critical flaw. The Mets must rediscover the grit that once defined them if they hope to compete in the second half, especially when facing a Phillies team that is also embroiled in a playoff hunt.

As the bench prepares for Thursday’s matchup, the message from the players is clear: they will fight harder and strive for better results. The next few weeks will reveal whether the offseason adjustments can turn the script around from a disappointing first half to something more respectable.