Mets Morning News: Mets hold on for wild win, but Thor exits early with a hamstring strain

Meet the Mets

The Mets beat the Cardinals 8-7 in a rollercoaster night at Citi Field. The Mets jumped out to an early lead thanks to a towering shot from Pete Alonso, his 23rd home run of the year. It was a big night for J.D. Davis, as he collected four hits for the first time in his career, including a home run. After Noah Syndergaard was forced to leave the game early due to a hamstring strain, the bullpen faltered but hung on for the win. The game ended in dramatic fashion with Jeff McNeil gunning down the pinch runner Jack Flaherty at home plate.

Choose your recap: Amazin’ Avenue short and long, Post, Daily News, Newsday, MLB.com, Bergen County Record

The Mets made a couple of roster moves yesterday. Hector Santiago was designated for assignment and Chris Flexen was called up from Triple-A. The Mets acquired reliever Brooks Pounders from the Indians, who was added to the roster and Tim Peterson was optioned to Triple-A.

The Mets are hoping they have an “impactful reliever” in Flexen, pointing to a velocity jump he’s getting out of the bullpen.

“I know what I can do,” said Brooks Pounders in a profile by Anthony DiComo of MLB.com. “Obviously, I had some ups and downs in my big league career, but I’m on a good path right now.

Robinson Cano tested out his quad at Citi Field yesterday and is eligible to come off the injured list today.

Brodie Van Wagenen has yet to decide whether the Mets will be buyers or sellers at the trading deadline.

The results on the field don’t jive with what Brodie Van Wagenen is saying about the Mets, writes Joel Sherman.

Mickey Callaway says Jeurys Familia is “still the guy,” despite his poor performance this season.

Brett Baty took batting practice at Citi Field before last night’s game and looked impressive.

Around the National League East

The Nationals took a 10-3 drubbing at the hands of the Diamondbacks, as Stephen Strasburg uncharacteristically surrendered four home runs.

The Nationals called up utility infielder Adrian Sanchez. They have yet to announce a corresponding move, but Todd Dybas of NBC Sports Washington thinks Kyle Barraclough may be heading for a demotion or injured list stint, due to his drop in velocity and poor results on the mound.

The Marlins bested the Pirates 4-3 in comeback fashion.

The Marlins are relying on the versatility of their players, writes Jordan McPherson for the Miami Herald.

The Phillies also had a comeback victory. They beat the Braves 6-5, as Hector Neris redeemed himself after Friday night’s brutal loss.

J.T. Realmuto exited the game early after taking a foul ball to the groin.

Braves starter Sean Newcomb also was forced to leave the game early, as he took a line dive off the back of the head. He has passed concussion protocol and will continue to be monitored.

Around Major League Baseball

The Yankees acquired Edwin Encarnacion from the Seattle Mariners for pitching prospect Juan Then. Seattle will also cover a portion of Encarnacion’s salary.

The Twins honored Joe Mauer at his number retirement ceremony last night.

The Cubs placed Kyle Hendricks on the injured list with right shoulder inflammation.

Yesterday at Amazin’ Avenue

Liam Murphy covered the Hector Santiago DFA.

Ken Lavin brought us the Daily Prospect Report.

Chris McShane wrote up the acquisition of Brooks Pounders from the Indians.

Brian Salvatore covered the Mets signing their first round draft pick, Brett Baty.

This Date in Mets History

Happy birthday to former Met Calvin Schiraldi, who was the centerpiece of the deal that brought Bob Ojeda to New York.