"They're not going to be happy, that's not a secret."
— Mets manager Carlos Mendoza, on the team's 12-game losing streak.
Mets' Skid Hits 12 Games After 5-3 Loss to Twins
The New York Mets lost to the Minnesota Twins 5-3 on Tuesday night at Citi Field, extending their losing streak to 12 games — the longest for the franchise since 2002. The Mets' record now stands at 7-16.
Game Timeline
The Mets took an early lead in the third inning when Francisco Lindor hit a three-run home run, scoring Marcus Semien and Carson Benge.
Mets starting pitcher Nolan McLean pitched 6.2 innings, allowing three runs on five hits while striking out 10 batters. McLean carried a no-hitter into the sixth inning, which ended on a single by Matt Wallner.
- Sixth inning: Byron Buxton hit a two-run home run, cutting the Mets' lead to 3-2.
- Seventh inning: Luke Keaschall singled, scoring Cody Klemens to tie the game 3-3.
Ninth Inning Collapse
The game was tied 3-3 entering the ninth inning. Mets pitcher Devin Williams faced five batters and allowed all five to reach base. The Twins scored two runs on a single by Keaschall and a walk by Williams. Pitcher Austin Warren entered the game with the bases loaded and no outs, and did not allow another run.
The Mets did not record a hit in the final five innings and did not score in the bottom of the ninth.
Team Context
The Mets have the highest payroll in Major League Baseball, at approximately $334 million. Before the game, manager Carlos Mendoza acknowledged fan frustration, saying, "They're not going to be happy, that's not a secret. Our fan base, they're going to let you know when you're not playing well." Some fans attended the game wearing paper bags on their heads.
Player News
The Mets activated outfielder Juan Soto from the injured list prior to the game. Soto did not play any rehab games before rejoining the team. The Mets plan to ease him back into action.
Pitcher Nolan McLean clarified that a hand gesture he made before allowing a home run to Byron Buxton was directed at catcher Francisco Alvarez, not at Buxton. Analyst Ron Darling's interpretation of the gesture was earlier reported as incorrect.
Next Game
The Mets are scheduled to play the Twins again on Wednesday at Citi Field. Clay Holmes is expected to start for the Mets.