The New York Mets, boasting an impressive 18-8 record, continue to thrive despite the absence of former batting champion Jeff McNeil, who has only appeared in one game this season due to an oblique strain. In his season debut, McNeil went 1-for-4. The team made a surprising decision by optioning Brett Baty to Triple-A Syracuse, despite his recent strong performance, which included a .993 OPS over his last eight games and a two-run homer in a victory against the Philadelphia Phillies.

Mets manager Carlos Mendoza expressed his reluctance regarding Baty's demotion, highlighting his capacity to compete at the major league level. Baty's notable improvement from a challenging 2022 season—where he averaged only .212—has raised expectations for his future contributions. Unfortunately, the Mets suffered a 5-4 defeat against the Washington Nationals, as their bullpen faltered, allowing a walk-off single in the ninth inning.