The New York Mets continued a recent surge by completing a three-game sweep of the Washington Nationals with a 4-3 victory on Sunday at Citi Field. This marks the Mets' second sweep since the Aug. 3 trade deadline, having also swept a series in Cleveland immediately after dismantling much of their bullpen.
Mets pitcher Christian Scott delivered a solid performance in the longest start of his major league career, allowing the team to build a lead. The offense was powered by a three-run fourth inning, which included a two-run home run from catcher Luis Torrens. The win improved the Mets' record under interim manager Andy Green to 22-22.
Despite the recent success, the Mets hold a 56-69 record and remain 11 1/2 games out of the final National League wild-card spot. The team has not been closer to the .500 mark since late June. However, the recent stretch of nine wins in 12 games offers a glimmer of hope as the team aims to salvage dignity in a season widely considered a disappointment.
The Mets' challenging schedule continues as they face a gauntlet of playoff contenders in their upcoming series. They are set to host the San Diego Padres, who are second in the NL wild card race, followed by a trip to face the first-place Chicago White Sox. The team will then play a home series against the Milwaukee Brewers, who have the best record in the majors, and the AL West-leading Houston Astros. The difficult stretch concludes with a series against the Tampa Bay Rays, leaders of the AL East.
Nate Lavender entered the game in the seventh inning to relieve Scott, getting key outs before Daniel Duarte pitched a scoreless eighth. Kodai Senga closed out the game for his third consecutive save.