Tyrone Taylor’s go-ahead three-run homer in the sixth inning propelled the New York Mets to an 8-3 victory over the Los Angeles Dodgers on Sunday, preventing a series sweep at Citi Field. The win came as the Mets continue to navigate the absence of outfielder Juan Soto, who is sidelined with a calf strain.
Mets pitcher Freddy Peralta’s performance was short and ineffective, marking another disappointing outing in his tenure with the team. Peralta pitched four innings, allowing three runs (one unearned) on six hits and two walks, with three strikeouts. This outing was his fourth in his last five starts failing to complete five innings. Acquired as the team's purported ace last winter, Peralta holds a 4.99 ERA as he approaches free agency and the Aug. 3 trade deadline.
The Mets took an early 1-0 lead in the first inning when A.J. Ewing singled and scored on Francisco Lindor's ensuing base hit. However, the Dodgers responded in the third inning with an RBI double from Freddie Freeman to tie the game 1-1, followed by an RBI ground out from Max Muncy that gave them a 2-1 lead. The Dodgers extended their lead to 3-1 in the fourth inning after an unearned run scored due to a fielding error and an RBI ground out.
Taylor's pivotal home run came in the sixth inning, scoring two baserunners and giving the Mets a 4-3 lead. The Mets expanded their advantage in the seventh inning when Ewing walked and scored on a passed ball, making it 5-3. Marcus Semien then delivered a three-run homer to seal the victory.
This series marked the Mets' second consecutive series where they finished 1-5 against the Dodgers this season. The team is 4-5 since the All-Star break and is set to face the Atlanta Braves beginning Monday.