Mets Morning News: Steven Matz struggles, Mets drop series to Atlanta

Meet the Mets

The Mets were attempting to take the series from the first place Braves, but instead they lost yet again due to sloppy pitching and defense. Steven Matz gave up a pair of home runs and the bullpen again put the game to rest by not keeping the Braves in check. The offense couldn’t come up with the big hit and even had a runner thrown out at home. Just another bad game played in Atlanta by a not-good-enough team who finds itself in fourth place.

Choose your recap: Amazin’ Avenue short and long, Daily News, Faith and Fear in Flushing, MLB.com, Newsday, Post, Times

The differences between the Braves and Mets were on full display in the final game of the series.

After dropping their last two series, the Mets have to turn to Walker Lockett to face the Cubs in Wrigley.

Stephen Nogosek finally made his major league debut with his family in attendance.

Ruben Tejada has been performing well for Syracuse, and he added to his good year with a cycle against Charlotte.

Gary Cohen chatted with The Athletic about his career so far and what it took to get him here (paywall alert).

Around the National League East

Home runs again carried the Braves in their win over the Mets. Atlanta placed pitcher Sean Newcomb on the IL with a concussion after he was hit in the head with a comebacker.

The Marlins acquired Cesar Puello from the Angels in exchange for cash considerations. Miami fell in extra innings to the Cardinals.

The Phillies did not have a good day and lost both games of a double header against the Nationals.

A bruised Max Scherzer shut down the Phillies to complete the second game of the double header. Patrick Corbin also held Philadelphia in check in the first game.

Around Major League Baseball

It is now being reported that David Ortiz might have been a case of mistaken identity the night he was shot.

The ridiculous umpire post about Manny Machado was not a good look for the union (paywall alert).

Chris Paddack will return to the Padres’ rotation this weekend to take on the Pirates.

Mike Trout hit two massive home runs against the Blue Jays in their 11-6 win.

Dodgers’ starter Rich Hill exited the game after one inning after experiencing discomfort in his forearm.

Yesterday at Amazin’ Avenue

On Episode 12 of A Pod of Their Own, the Mets’ bullpen and online harassment was discussed.

Steve Sypa wrote up Draft Profiles on Hunter Barco, Joseph Charles, and Mitch Senger.

This Date in Mets History

The Mets were flying high on this date in 2006. They hit four home runs in a win over the Reds to put them 9.5 games ahead of the Phillies. Perhaps the most surprising blast came off the bat of Steve Trachsel, his only one of the season.