Mets Afternoon News: Mets pounded by Brewers, David Wright still trying to return two years later

Meet the Mets

The Mets got blown out 17-6 in last night’s game against the Brewers with every pitcher outside of Jerry Blevins getting shelled. The Mets got off to a quick lead early, which Jason Vargas quickly gave right back. They would eventually lead again buoyed by solo home runs from Brandon Nimmo and Michael Conforto, but it was all down hill from there, as Vargas only pitched three innings and the shellacking continued at the expense of Jacob Rhame, A.J. Ramos, and Chris Flexen.

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Today marks the two-year anniversary since David Wright has played in a baseball game. But he’s not giving up yet and his teammates admire his dedication to returning to the Mets’ lineup.

Asdrubal Cabrera tweaked his knee in last night’s loss, but is penciled into the lineup for now, depending on how he’s feeling.

Mickey Callaway thinks A.J. Ramos’ struggles may be mental.

Jose Reyes continues to find his way into the Mets lineup, despite his poor play.

Kristie Ackert writes that the Mets can’t afford to continue to roll with Jason Vargas, but points out that options are limited when it comes to replacing him.

Kevin Kernan thinks Seth Lugo is the answer and that he should be in the Mets’ rotation.

It’s a very Nice birthday for Terry Collins today.

Around the National League East

Yesterday, Aaron Nola took a no-hit bid into the seventh inning, as the Phillies outlasted the Blue Jays 2-1. If this fact seems rather unremarkable, it’s because it has been. Nola’s no-hit bid was the 24th of the season to last at least six innings. Last year, there were only 24 such efforts in total for the whole season.

The Boston-area native Sean Newcomb struggled against his home-town team as the Braves fell to the Red Sox 8-6 at Fenway Park.

The Nationals bested the Marlins 4-1, thanks to a boost in the late innings that started with a Wilmer Difo homer. It was probably Wei-Yin Chen’s best start as a Marlin, but the Marlins were unable to hold the lead.

Around Major League Baseball

David Lennon believes Rob Manfred when he says the ball isn’t juiced.

Richard Justice reviews the pieces each contender may be looking for at the deadline. He notes that Jeurys Familia could be a good trade chip for the Mets to a team looking for bullpen help.

Gerrit Cole is another pitcher who Trevor Bauer is accusing of using pine tar to improve his spin rate. Perhaps it’s no surprise then that their history, dating back to their days as UCLA teammates, is not exactly amicable.

The Rangers may trade Cole Hamels in the coming months and it seems that the Yankees, who need starting pitching, may be interested.

Kyle Downing evaluates a changing pitching landscape in baseball and what pitching roles may be more valuable than ever as the game changes.

Yesterday at Amazin’ Avenue

Kory Powell brought us the daily prospect report.

This Date in Mets History

On this day in 2010, the Mets completed a series sweep of the NL Champion Philadelphia Phillies with Mike Pelfrey on the mound, shutting them out in all three games.