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Well, We Scored (And Still Lost)

Jul 6, 2026; San Francisco, California, USA; Toronto Blue Jays first baseman Vladimir Guerrero Jr. (27) throws to starting pitcher Kevin Gausman (34) for an out at first base against the San Francisco Giants in the third inning at Oracle Park. Mandatory Credit: Eakin Howard-Imagn Images | Eakin Howard-Imagn Images

Jays 1 Giants 10

I don’t know….

At least in the past we were able to make the easy defensive plays. But tonight, we couldn’t even do that.

Andrés Giménez made an error. Kazuma Okamoto made an official, had another that should have been an error and made a lousy play on a throw into third which was just a bad mistake, too bad to be called an error. Kirk made a poor throw to second, and Ernie Clement made a worse home back to home.

Kevin Gausman wasn’t great. He wasn’t as bad as the score made him look, but he wasn’t great. 5.1 innings, 5 hits, 7 runs, 4 earned, 5 walks and 8 strikeouts. Yeah the defense didn’t help him out and two of his earned runs came after he left the game.

Tommy Nance came in with two on and one out and gave up a home run. Two runs added to Kevin’s line and one to Nance.

And Adam Macko gave up a 2-run homer in the eighth.

We managed three hits. Clement, Nathan Lukes and Okamoto had one each, Okamoto’s a home run, giving us our first in 29 innings?

No Jays of the Day. Clement had the high mark at 0.05 WPA, but that didn’t count the wide throw home.

Other Award: Gausman (-0.21). And really the batters all deserve one. Lukes had the low mark (-0.08).

Tomorrow is game two with the Giants….Someone will be opener, and Spencer Miles will be the bulk guy. Lefty Noah Schultz (2-5, 5.86) starts for SF.

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Summer League Recap: Kings 95, Bucks 89

SACRAMENTO, CA - JULY 6: Darius Acuff Jr. #5 of the Sacramento Kings and Brayden Burries #0 of the Milwaukee Bucks look on during the game on July 6, 2026 at Golden 1 Center in Sacramento, California. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and or using this Photograph, user is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement. Mandatory Copyright Notice: Copyright 2026 NBAE (Photo by Rocky Widner/NBAE via Getty Images) | NBAE via Getty Images

The Bucks put up one hell of a fight in their final game in Sac, but couldn’t outlast the Kings in a tight one, losing 95-89. Brayden Burries debuted and was impressive in somewhat limited minutes, while Cormac Ryan and Pete Nance did not suit up. Zack Austin led the Bucks with 17 points, while Darius Acuff Jr. was the Kings’ best with 22 points and three assists.

NBA.com Box Score

Game Recap

The Bucks started out slow, with Brayden Burries looking to get his feet wet right away: Burries pulled a transition three on his first possession, then beat his man to the rim but failed to see the help defender come over, getting his shot blocked. At last, Milwaukee’s No. 10 pick drove off the side pick-and-roll to get himself to the free throw line. the Kings, on the other hand, were rolling, with their first-round pick Darius Acuff Jr. scoring in bunches to give his team a 15-4 edge halfway through the first. Other than Burries getting to the line, the Bucks simply couldn’t find a consistent source of offence, making just one of their first 13 shots to be down 25-9 late in the period. Thankfully, new Bucks two-way Kam Jones checked in late and powered the team to a 13-3 run to close the frame—featuring some nifty finishes in the lane—down just six, 28-22, after one.

Amid the Kings’ hot start to the second, Burries nailed a tough side-step three for his first field goal of the game, followed by a stampede to the rim in transition; he looked the goods on both ends of the floor. Still, Milwaukee couldn’t reduce the deficit past ~eight points in the opening six minutes of the frame, with missed boxouts doing them in time after time. As the period drew to a close, Milwaukee continued to struggle locking down Acuff, but crucial buckets from Jesse Edwards, Kam Jones, and BJ Boston kept the “visitors” within shouting distance, down 55-48 at the half.

After a quiet first half, 60th pick Malique Lewis was aggressive to open the third, knocking a kick-out three followed by a transition rack-attack to reduce the margin to just three. Unfortunately, the lead blew back out to the customary ~eight-points as Milwaukee missed some easy chances and got hurt the other way. King’s second-year man Dylan Cardwell was playing on another level than most of the guys out there, beasting in the paint on both ends. There weren’t too many highlights to end the frame for Milwaukee, but BJ Boston’s lob to Zack Austin was certainly one. Bucks down 74-66 after three.

Consecutive threes from Marquel Sutton and Isaiah Stevens to open the final frame immediately put the Bucks behind the eight-ball, but an 8-0 run shortly thereafter—headed primarily by Bogi Markovic—had the deficit right back down to six. Milwaukee, for the first time in the game, then knuckled down on defence and were finally able to get on level terms behind an extended 19-5 run in which Austin was key. Crucially, the unit that got the team back in the game stayed in the game, with Burries taking a seat on the pine to finish this one. Unfortunately, a few key misses from Markovic, paired with crucial makes from Cardwell and Acuff, meant the Kings took the W.

Stat That Stood Out

Milwaukee’s bench was huge, notching 50 of their 89 points. Sac’s bench scored just 24.

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'Gutsy' win at Braves returns Mets to Citi Field with momentum after series split

Monday's 7-6 win at the Braves saw the Mets escape Truist Park with a split of the four-game series after New York overcame Atlanta in 10 innings, led by clutch moments from Juan Soto and Luis Torrens, among others.

Interim manager Andy Green and the Mets (38-53) return to Citi Field for a six-game homestand before the All-Star break, beginning with Tuesday's 7:10 p.m. start on SNY against the Kansas City Royals, trending back in the right direction.

"It was gutsy tonight, for sure," Green said. "Some huge swings late. Love having Juan up in that situation. That's a fun swing for the whole team. Huge swing for us. And then what Torrens did there again is pretty special. A lot of pitchers coming in and doing a really good job tonight, too -- guys coming into some dicey situations. And so, I see it as a really gutsy win."

Soto's ninth-inning home run gave New York a 5-3 lead before the Braves (52-37) evened the score during the bottom half on Matt Olson's two-run shot against Devin Williams, but Torrens' two-run double in the 10th and Luke Weaver's one-run relief appearance was enough for the Mets to survive.

New York went from a three-game skid, including a 19-6 margin in the first two losses of the series with the Braves between Friday's 5-3 defeat and Saturday's 14-3 result, to consecutive wins for the first time since June 17 and 18.

"It's always great," Soto said. "Play against teams like that -- they're a pretty good team, pretty good players over there and we showed that we can beat them. And at least to split of the series, I think it's good to see -- positive stuff."

Soto turned on a 3-1 fastball at 95 mph against Raisel Iglesias over the plate's inner half for his 19th homer of the season to put the Mets in front. He brought home Tyrone Taylor -- pinch-running for Francisco Alvarez, who led off the ninth inning with a single -- and Ronny Mauricio.

"He's the best in the game," Green said of Soto. "It's just like he's in a tier of his own and, in that moment, that's who you want in the box. You've got to step back for a second and give credit to Alvy and Ronny Mauricio, who has not played much, facing ... probably one of the best closers -- if not the best closer -- in the game right now and Ronny gets a huge hit for us there, too. So, those were two enormous at-bats that set us up for getting Juan to the dish."

Torrens took Taylor's spot in the lineup after the inning, entering as the Mets' new catcher, and followed Soto's momentum. In the 10th, Torrens turned on an 0-2 breaking ball at 80 mph over the inner half of the plate and sent a two-out double down the left-field line, scoring Bo Bichette and Jared Young.

"It's very big," Torrens said. "All of us are trying to pull out wins. And to be able to go out here the last two days and to pull out two victories, it's really gratifying as a group."

The Mets get a three-game series with the Royals (37-54), who enter New York after consecutive wins over the Phillies to take the three-game set from Philadelphia (50-41). A three-game series with the Boston Red Sox follows Friday, Saturday and Sunday.

"Every day is a new day," Soto said. "We can't focus on what happened. It's been a tough series, season, definitely, but we've got to take the positive stuff. So, definitely, today, it was a really good, positive day. So, definitely, we take it and we learn from it, we keep moving forward."

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There are reportedly ‘no plans’ for LeBron James to meet with teams, just Rich Paul

LOS ANGELES, CA - MARCH 8: LeBron James #23 of the Los Angeles Lakers and Rich Paul talk after the game against the Milwaukee Bucks on March 8, 2024 at Crypto.Com Arena in Los Angeles, California. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and/or using this Photograph, user is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement. Mandatory Copyright Notice: Copyright 2024 NBAE (Photo by Andrew D. Bernstein/NBAE via Getty Images) | NBAE via Getty Images

LeBron James is still a free agent, and the Cleveland Cavaliers are still one of the teams trying to secure his services for next season. Whether or not they’re the front-runners to do so is anyone’s guess, even though other teams seem to think that they are.

LeBron has always handled free agency differently than most. He and his team have always played things pretty close to the vest. While there are signs that James could be leaning one way or another, the only people who really know what he’s thinking are he and his team.

Not directly meeting with prospective teams is a new wrinkle James is adding this go around. According to NBA insider Chris Haynes, James’s agent, Rich Paul, will be the one meeting with teams, and then will relay that information back to James for his decision.

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Figuring out what exactly this means for the Cavs or their chances is truly anyone’s guess.

On one hand, it’s easy to see this news and talk yourself into being a good thing for the Cavaliers. After all, why would James have to meet with Dan Gilbert and/or Koby Altman to discuss? LeBron has worked with both during his time in Cleveland. It’s not like they would need to get to know each other or anything like that. This could mean that he isn’t seriously considering a drastically different environment like the Minnesota Timberwolves or Golden State Warriors.

However, if you wanted to read this more pessimistically, you’re more than able to do that as well. Paul has been pretty complimentary of the other teams in the process, especially ones like the Philadelphia 76ers, on his podcast, Game Over, with Max Kellerman. Could any particular preference Paul has for a team possibly sway James’s opinions?

Maybe LeBron comes back to Cleveland. Maybe he doesn’t. How much of a factor James not meeting with individual teams, but letting Paul do so, is truly anyone’s guess. But that’s how much of the last few weeks have gone. We don’t know what LeBron is thinking, and we won’t until he officially tells us which city he’ll be playing for in his 24th season.

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Penguins' 3-Year Deal For Chinakhov Tells Story Of Shifting Market

On Sunday, the Pittsburgh Penguins announced a slew of RFA signings, which included one-year deals to goaltender Arturs Silovs and forward Daniel Gustafsson, a two-year deal to netminder Joel Blomqvist, and a three-year contract for scoring forward Egor Chinakhov.

Chinakhov, 25, impressed the Penguins and fans last season with 18 goals and 36 points in 43 games after he was brought over from the Columbus Blue Jackets in a change-of-scenery trade in late December. It was finally the breakout that was expected of him since his debut during the 2021-22 season, as he finished the season with 21 goals and 42 points total - both career-highs.

In years past, a 2-3 year bridge deal worth around $3-4 million average annual value would have been appropriate for a player like Chinakhov. Yes, he flashed brilliance with the Penguins last season using his elite-level shot, his surprisingly keen playmaking skills, and his chemistry in the Penguins' top-six - with almost all of his production coming at even strength since he didn't see top power play minutes.

Penguins Announce Slew Of RFA SigningsPenguins Announce Slew Of RFA SigningsThe Pittsburgh Penguins re-signed a lot of their restricted free agents on Sunday.

Despite that, it was still a flash-in-the-pan sample size in what has, largely, been an underwhelming and injury-riddled young career. So, once again, in years past, giving a player like Chinakhov $6.25 million for three years may have seemed a bit steep.

But gone are those days. The market is changing, and Chinakhov's contract is one of several that highlight the pretty seismic shift in the NHL salary cap landscape.

In the past several weeks, we have seen - in different ways - how the market is changing with relation to player value. Brady Tkachuk was dealt to the Florida Panthers for three first-round picks and a second-round pick, something that may have seemed excessive just a year or two ago. Defenseman Bowen Byram - hardly one of the NHL's elite defensemen - returned the 2026 fourth overall pick to the Buffalo Sabres and was extended by the Chicago Blackhawks for six years, $12.5 million average annual value, making him the highest-paid blueliner in hockey.

Stars, Jason Robertson Enter New Phase of Contract NegotiationsStars, Jason Robertson Enter New Phase of Contract NegotiationsA high-stakes arbitration filing pushes Dallas toward a potential disaster, forcing Jim Nill to navigate a tightening cap crunch before his star winger hits unrestricted free agency.

Then, there was the reported trade offer from the Seattle Kraken for Dallas Stars superstar Jason Robertson - who the Penguins have been interested in - that included three first-round picks and a rostered NHL player. Robertson ended up saying he wouldn't extend in Seattle, rendering the offer moot, but those three first-round picks are a pretty decent bet to be in the lottery zone. 

And, most recently, Anaheim Ducks center Leo Carlsson - who is 21 years old and has yet to hit the 30-goal or 70-point plateau - was offer-sheeted $18 million by the Philadelphia Flyers, which demands four first-round picks as compensation and which will make him the highest-paid player in hockey next season despite being nowhere close to hockey's best player.

Shortly after that happened, Anaheim extended 22-year-old RFA defenseman Pavel Mintyukov - intriguing but still largely unproven - to a five-year deal worth $7.2 million annually, which he is, realistically, unlikely to play up to.

Speculation: To Match or Not to Match, is There a Hidden Third Option?Speculation: To Match or Not to Match, is There a Hidden Third Option?Philadelphia’s massive offer sheet for Leo Carlsson forces a high-stakes gamble in Anaheim, weighing a franchise centerpiece against cap flexibility and a potential blockbuster trade-based alternative.

All of a sudden, perceived overpays are quite literally happening everywhere in every facet, whether it be offer sheets, extensions, acquisition cost, or anything else. All of a sudden, acquiring elite talent requires paying a premium on premiums, putting teams attempting to get over the hump by leveraging assets for that talent at a major disadvantage. All of a sudden, "prove-it" deals or bridge deals hardly exist, as NHL general managers are paying forward for potential rather than what the most realistic outcomes are likely to be.

In a market that's so rapidly and drastically changing to favor players and their agency, there is a lot of guessing when it comes to player value. With the cap expected to rise substantially year-by-year, some of the league's best players are going to look vastly underpaid very quickly, and players like Robertson and Connor Bedard, both RFAs, are likely to demand even more money because their perceived worth will be ballooned when compared to a player like Carlsson.

Should The Penguins Follow The Flyers' Offer Sheet Blueprint?Should The Penguins Follow The Flyers' Offer Sheet Blueprint?The Flyers shocked the NHL on Friday when they sent a lucrative offer sheet to Anaheim Ducks' forward Leo Carlsson, and the Pittsburgh Penguins should take notes.

So, it's a tricky game for GMs. That's why Penguins' POHO and GM Kyle Dubas giving Chinakhov $6.25 million for three years is a good bet, even if his salary pretty handily exceeds that of the Penguins' two best and most established wingers in Bryan Rust and Rickard Rakell. If Chinakhov can build on what he did last season with the Penguins and reach the star-caliber ceiling that Pittsburgh believes he can, that $6.25 million is going to look like a bargain contract as early as sometime this season. If not, $6.25 million isn't going to affect them very much, anyway.

Assuming he does continue to blossom, however, it also means that Chinakhov would be due for a hefty raise on his next deal, which would take effect in his age 28 season.

There is a seismic shift happening in the NHL. Players have more say in where they go, and they'll have increased negotiating power when it comes to dollar figures in contract talks. The Penguins may have found a shining jewel in Chinakhov, and although they may be betting on potential here, it's certainly a bet worth taking in what looks to be a new era of the NHL.

Does A Three-Way Trade Make Sense For Penguins To Land Robertson?Does A Three-Way Trade Make Sense For Penguins To Land Robertson?The Penguins may not have the assets, at least, more so than other teams, to pull off a straight deal for Jason Robertson. But what if another team got involved?

Bookmark THN - Pittsburgh Penguins on your Google News tab to follow the latest Penguins news, roster moves, player features, and more!    

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Penguins Trade Target Files For Arbitration

It's no secret that the Pittsburgh Penguins have been connected to Dallas Stars forward Jason Robertson this offseason. 

Penguins general manager/president Kyle Dubas is a big fan of him and has tried to land him via trade this offseason, per multiple reports. 

Heck, just look at the way Penguins assistant general manager Jason Spezza danced around a question regarding Robertson on July. 1. 

"I won't speak directly on him, but I will tell you that we've done lots of work and inquired on lots of different players throughout our time here in the last few weeks, and we will continue to," Spezza said. "I think that's the job, and that's what we're trying to do, is to make sure we're always in on everything and understanding what's going on around the league, and where that fits into our puzzle. Jason's obviously a good player that lots of teams have interest in, and we're going to continue to investigate everything that's out there."

That's the closest you'll get an executive to say that a team has called on a certain player without fully admitting it. 

Over the weekend, Robertson was one of 15 players to file for arbitration since he's still a restricted free agent. This means that teams cannot sign him to an offer sheet. 

The Stars would like to avoid arbitration with Robertson because if he signs an arbitration deal, he would become an unrestricted free agent after next season. 

They can still look for a trade partner for him or potentially offer more money on an extension. Going off that, Sportsnet's Elliotte Friedman reported on the Monday edition of 32 Thoughts that there's still a "gap" in the contract talks. The Stars are in at $12-12.5 million, while Robertson is asking for around $14 million.

This is definitely a situation that the Penguins will continue to monitor throughout the offseason, especially if the Stars can't get anything done. 

Bookmark THN - Pittsburgh Penguins on your Google News tab to follow the latest Penguins news, roster moves, player features, and more!   

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Phillies’ Christopher Sanchez rocked by Royals in career-worst outing

Baseball player Cristopher Sánchez pitching a baseball.
Philadelphia Phillies starting pitcher Cristopher Sanchez delivers during the first inning of a baseball game against the New York Mets on Saturday, June 20, 2026, in Philadelphia.

Sometimes it’s just not your day. 

And for Phillies pitcher Christopher Sanchez, it just wasn’t his day Monday. 

In a 15-1 loss to the Royals, Sanchez allowed a career-high nine runs in 3 ⅓ innings and struck out a career-low one batter. 

The disastrous start ballooned the Cy Young candidate’s ERA from 2.00 to 2.62, but Sanchez couldn’t pinpoint anything specific that led to the nightmare afternoon. 

Philadelphia Phillies starting pitcher Cristopher Sanchez delivers during the second inning of a baseball game against the New York Mets on Saturday, June 20, 2026, in Philadelphia. AP Photo/Chris Szagola

“I mean, it’s just a game,” Sanchez told reporters through an interpreter. “As I learn from the good things that we have on the field, and the things when we perform well, the same thing when I don’t perform. I just try to learn from it.” 

Monday’s disaster was a rare occurrence in what’s been an incredibly successful season for Sanchez. 

Sanchez was coming off a seven-inning shutout against the Pirates on June 30 and had allowed five or more runs just twice this season coming into Monday. 

He also made headlines earlier this season for tossing 50 ⅔ consecutive scoreless innings, the fifth-longest single-season streak since 1893. 

But from the get-go on Monday, he just didn’t have it. 

Philadelphia Phillies starting pitcher Cristopher Sanchez delivers during the first inning of a baseball game against the New York Mets on Saturday, June 20, 2026, in Philadelphia. AP Photo/Chris Szagola

The lefty was tagged for six first-inning runs after a throwing error by shortstop Trea Turner and a three-run homer by Luke Maile. 

Sanchez even allowed Royals catcher Salvador Perez, who’s hitting .209 this season, to go yard in the second inning. 

The Royals smashed three homers off Sanchez before he was taken out in the fourth inning, and continued mashing even after the lefty departed. 

They scored a run in every inning they batted, contributing to their most complete offensive performance of the season. 

Despite Sanchez’s woeful outing and the Phillies loss, they’re still in a wildcard spot as the All-Star break approaches. 

The Phillies are 50-41 and 3 ½ games behind the NL East-leading Braves after the lopsided loss.

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Mets squeeze out extra-inning win over Braves after Devin Williams’ implosion

An image collage containing 3 images, Image 1 shows Luis Torrens of the New York Mets celebrates a two-run double, Image 2 shows Mets pitcher Luke Weaver and catcher Luis Torrens reacting after defeating the Braves, Image 3 shows New York Mets pitcher Devin Williams (38) pitches the ball against the Atlanta Braves

ATLANTA — In those rare instances they succeed, the Mets only do things the hard way.

The easy way Monday night would have been to ride Juan Soto’s go-ahead homer in the ninth inning to the finish line without extra hassle. Instead, Devin Williams imploded in the bottom of the inning, and it took a 10th-inning hero.

Luis Torrens became that guy with a two-run double that lifted the Mets to a 7-6 victory over the Braves and four-game series split.

Luke Weaver got the final three outs with only the automatic runner scoring (an unearned run), extending his streak to 26 innings without an earned run allowed since May 1.

“They have very good players over there and we showed that we can beat them and at least split the series,” Soto said. “Positive stuff.”

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Williams was handed a two-run lead in the ninth inning and promptly surrendered a game-tying homer to Matt Olson. After the homer — a blast to left field that followed Ozzie Albies’ leadoff double — the Braves got runners to second and third with two outs. Williams was removed and Brooks Raley struck out José Azócar.

With two outs in the top of the 10th inning, Jared Young was hit by a pitch before Torrens stroked a two-run double. The veteran backup catcher has shown a knack for such big hits in his three seasons with the Mets.

“For me, it’s just trying to pick the team up whatever way I can,” Torrens said through an interpreter. “It’s really just concentrating on the at-bat and the approach there.”

Mets pitcher Luke Weaver, left, reacts with catcher Luis Torrens, right, after their team defeated the Atlanta Braves during the 10th inning of a baseball game, Monday, July 6, 2026. AP Photo/Erik S. Lesser

After going 0-67 last year when trailing after eight innings, the Mets were 1-45 in such games this year before Monday’s comeback.

“It was gutsy tonight, for sure,” interim manager Andy Green said. “Some huge swings late.”

In the ninth, Francisco Alvarez and Ronny Mauricio each singled against Raisel Iglesias before Soto with two outs worked the count to 3-1 and crushed a 95-mph fastball over the right field fence to put the Mets ahead 5-3.

The Mets overcame an early Young error and two runners thrown out on the bases.

Mets pitcher Freddy Peralta reacts on the mound after giving up two runs to the Atlanta Braves during the second inning of a baseball game, Monday, July 6, 2026, in Atlanta. AP Photo/Erik S. Lesser
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Young misplayed a grounder at first base that led to two unearned runs in the second inning. Bo Bichette was thrown out at the plate attempting to score from first base as the second out in the sixth and A.J. Ewing got nabbed off second base on a line drive to third in the seventh, completing the trifecta.

Freddy Peralta, hindered by an elevated pitch count, lasted only 4 ²/₃ innings and allowed three runs, two unearned, on six hits with six strikeouts and one walk. It was an improved performance over his four-inning outing in Toronto last Wednesday in which he surrendered five earned runs, but the Mets needed additional length. He departed after throwing 103 pitches.

“I feel good about some things mentally I have been working on, but also my pitches were pretty good and my sweeper was amazing,” Peralta said. “I wish I at least finished the fifth, but other than that everything was [good].”

Carson Benge’s homer leading off the second gave the Mets a 1-0 lead. Benge’s blast was his 11th this season. He hammered a 1-2 slider from Reynaldo Lopez, clearing the fence in left-center.

Luis Torrens #13 of the New York Mets celebrates a two-run double in the 10th inning against the Atlanta Braves at Truist Park on July 6, 2026 in Atlanta, Georgia. Getty Images
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But the Mets surrendered the lead with sloppy play in the bottom of the inning. Young mishandled Mike Yastrzemski’s grounder for an error, leading to two unearned runs. Jim Jarvis delivered a bloop single for the first run. Michel Harris II singled in the second run. The rally started with Dominic Smith’s single before with two outs Young misplayed Yastrzemski’s grounder.

Olson homered leading off the third to increase the Mets’ deficit to 3-1.

The Braves threatened against Peralta in the fifth, but the right-hander escaped — with an assist from lefty reliever Cionel Pérez, who recorded the final out. Albies doubled and Drake Baldwin was hit by a pitch before a wild pitch advanced the runners. But Peralta struck out Mauricio Dubón before Pérez retired Joey Bart.

The Mets pulled to within 3-2 on Alvarez’s RBI single in the sixth, but a potentially larger inning was thwarted because Bichette was thrown out at the plate attempting to score from first on Benge’s one-out double. Brett Baty left the tying run at third base by striking out to conclude the inning.

In the seventh, Ewing and Soto walked in succession with one out before Bichette’s line drive was gloved by Austin Riley, who fired to second to catch Ewing trying to retreat.

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Mets win in extra innings thanks to Soto, Torrens

NEW YORK, NEW YORK - JUNE 14: Juan Soto #22 and Luis Torrens #13 of the New York Mets celebrate after the game against the Atlanta Braves at Citi Field on June 14, 2026 in the Queens borough of New York City. The New York Mets won 8-1. (Photo by Ishika Samant/Getty Images) | Getty Images

The Mets proved they still have the capacity to surprise in late innings today as they won 7-6 against the Braves and split the second series of the season against their division rival. Juan Soto walked three times and hit a three-run home run, and Luis Torrens provided the game-winning double in the tenth inning to finish things off in the Mets’ fourteenth extra-inning game this year.

Freddy Peralta struggled to remain efficient, starting in the first inning, as Michael Harris II bounced an infield hit off Peralta’s leg that landed in the middle of nowhere. Harris got the single and moved to second base on a wild pitch that flew over Francisco Alvarez’s head, but the inning ended with no runs scored. Peralta, however, needed 22 pitches to get out of the first inning.

Carson Benge struck first at the top of the second inning, smacking a home run into center field. However, at the bottom of the second inning, Dominic Smith lined a single into left field before the Mets’ defense struck again. It started at first base, with a ball deflecting off Jared Young on an error benefiting Mike Yastrzemski. Next, Jim Jarvis hit an RBI single into left field that three different Mets watched fall, apparently none of them sure if the others were going for it. It was Jarvis’ first major-league RBI, so at least it was happy for someone. After that, Harris came through by sneaking a ground ball into left field for an RBI single. Ozzie Albies grounded out to end the inning, but the score was now Braves 2, Mets 1. At the bottom of the third, Matt Olson belted a home run over right field to increase the Braves’ lead to 3-1.

At the bottom of fifth inning, Peralta came back out despite his high pitch count. Albies drilled a ball into right field that Benge should have caught but did not, and so Albies came up with a double. Olson was up next and reached on the fielder’s choice, but Albies played cat and mouse long enough to allow Olson to reach second base. Peralta then hit Drake Baldwin with a pitch, and then threw his second wild pitch of the night that moved Baldwin and Olson to second and third bases. After Peralta struck out Mauricio Dubón on his 103rd pitch, Cionel Pérez replaced him for the final out of the fifth inning. Two pitches later, the inning was over.

Bichette opened the sixth inning by whacking the ball over the head of pitcher Didier Fuentes for a single. When Benge lined a double into left field a few moments later, Bichette was waved around third base, only to be tagged out at home for the second out instead of the second run. Jared Young followed up with a single that moved Benge to third base, and Alvarez smacked an RBI single into right field to score Benge, but the scoring ended there when Brett Baty struck out on a foul tip: Braves 3, Mets 2. Cionel Pérez allowed a single to Yastrzemski, but stranded him there to end the sixth.

A.J. Ewing drew a walk in the seventh inning, and Soto drew his third walk of the game to bring up Bichette. Unfortunately, Bichette lined into a double play as Austin Riley managed to snag the ball out of the air and get it to Albies to tag Ewing out at second base, ending the top of the seventh. A.J. Minter came out for the bottom of the seventh and allowed a single to Baldwin, then a double to Dubón immediately after. Luckily, Minter struck out Joey Bart to end the inning right after.

Benge walked after Francisco Lindor grounded out, but Jared Young grounded into a double play, and that was that at the top of the eighth. Guillo Zuñiga came out for the bottom of the eighth in his major league debut for the Mets and acquitted himself well, walking Jarvis but allowing no hits or runs. Alvarez singled to start things off at the top of the ninth, and Tyrone Taylor came out to pinch run. After Baty struck out, Ronny Mauricio smacked a ground ball into right field for a single as well. Ewing flied out for the second out, but Taylor made it to third base. Soto was up next and absolutely bludgeoned one beyond right field and into the chophouse for a 3-run home run, and the Mets took the lead for the first time since the second inning. Afterwards, Bichette came up and, despite fouling two pitches off his foot, kept persisting until grounding out.

Devin Williams came out for the ninth given the change in score, and Ozzie Albies smacked a double, then stole third base, technically, although the base was absolutely uncovered. It did not matter when Matt Olson belted his own home run into the opposite field with no outs. Baldwin singled on an opposite-field line drive, and Jorge Mateo came in to pinch-run for him. Dubón grounded out for the first out (finally), but then Bart walked before Riley grounded out as well to bring up Yastrzemski. Brooks Raley came in to replace Williams at this point to try to get the final out against the lefty, but José Azócar wound up pinch-hitting for Yastrzemski and struck out. On to the tenth, with the score tied at 5-5.

Bichette was the free runner for the Mets at the top of the tenth inning as Lindor lined out on the first pitch he saw. Benge grounded out, but Bichette was able to move to third base. Owen Murphy, pitching in HIS major league debut, hit Young with a pitch to bring up Luis Torrens, who had come in for Alvarez to catch in the ninth. Torrens, who tends to excel in this type of situation, lined an RBI double into left field to score both Bichette and Young. Baty struck out, and the top of the inning was over. Luke Weaver pitched the bottom of the tenth for the Mets, and Azócar was the free runner for the Braves. In a close call, Harris ripped a double into right field after winning a challenge that overturned strike three, and Azócar scored, ending Weaver’s scoreless streak. Albies struck out, and Weaver intentionally walked Olson. Weaver unintentionally walked Mateo to load the bases, but by some miracle, Dubón grounded into a force out at second base to end the game.

The Mets now fly home to face the Royals tomorrow on short rest. Old friend Seth Lugo is pitching for the Royals, and TBD once again is pitching for the Mets.

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What’s WPA?

Big Mets winner: Juan Soto, +82% WPA
Big Mets loser: Devin Williams, -54% WPA
Mets pitchers: -20% WPA
Mets hitters: +70% WPA
Teh aw3s0mest play: Juan Soto 3-run home run, +74.6% WPA
Teh sux0rest play: Matt Olson’s ninth inning, 2-run home run, -41.1% WPA

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Darryn Peterson, Cam Boozer deliver in head-to-head NBA Summer League game

The NBA Summer League gives fans a first-look at the recent draft prospects who are making their professional debuts.

On Monday, July 6, the league featured a matchup between the No. 2 and 3 picks in the 2026 NBA Draft with Darryn Peterson and Cameron Boozer going head-to-head in a matchup as the Utah Jazz took on the Memphis Grizzlies at the tournament in Salt Lake City.

Boozer and Peterson were named co-MVPs at the 2025 McDonald's All-American classic. Now, on the NBA stage in summer league, both rookies did not disappoint.

Peterson, the No. 2-pick out of Kansas paced the Jazz with a double-double tallying a game-high 25 points, 12 assists and two steals. He shot an efficient 53% from the field, including 33% from 3-point territory going 3-for-9 from deep.

As for the No. 3-pick from Duke, Boozer had a productive 18 points for the Grizzlies, including a thunderous slam and four field goals from long range. He shot 6-for-9 (66%) from the field, including going 4-for-5 from 3-point distance.

Boozer has looked like the son of a NBA veteran (his father, Carlos Boozer played 13 seasons in the NBA, including six in Utah). The younger Boozer looks and moves like he's already been in the league for a decade. Throughout the game, he effectively moved the ball, dishing out four assists. He was also a force on the boards, grabbing seven rebounds.

However, despite the stellar play from the first-year players that has their fanbases excited for fall ball, it's the Jazz who had the advantage in the contest when it was all said and done. Utah defeated Memphis, 109-100.

This article originally appeared on USA TODAY Sports: Darryn Peterson, Cam Boozer deliver in head-to-head NBA Summer League game

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Nikola Jokic sets record straight on Nuggets contract rumors

Nikola Jokic with the basketball during a game.
Denver Nuggets center Nikola Jokic (15) drives to the net in the second half against the Brooklyn Nets at Barclays Center, Friday, Dec. 22, 2023, in Brooklyn, NY. (Corey Sipkin...

Don’t worry Nuggets fans, Nikola Jokic isn’t saying goodbye anytime soon. 

Following a FIBA World Cup qualifying game Monday, the Serbian star reaffirmed his desire to extend his contract and finish his career with the Nuggets, though he plans to wait to sign his deal. 

“My idea and desire is to stay in Denver,” Jokic told reporters in Serbian. “My desire is to play the rest of my life in Denver.”

Denver Nuggets center Nikola Jokic (15) drives to the net in the second half against the Brooklyn Nets at Barclays Center on Friday, Dec. 22, 2023, in Brooklyn, NY. Corey Sipkin for the NY POST

Jokic, who’s been with the Nuggets since 2014, is under contract for two seasons and has been eligible since June 14 to sign a four-year, $278 million max extension. 

But by waiting until next offseason for an extension, Jokic would be eligible to sign a five-year, $359.5 million deal as a free agent, which would be the largest contract in NBA history and push his career earnings to $724 million. 

The 31-year-old was also eligible to sign a three-year, $200 million extension last offseason, but opted to delay the process. 

Over 11 years with the Nuggets, Jokic has blossomed into one of the greatest centers in NBA history. 

Not only did he help the Nuggets to their first title in 2023, but he’s also won three MVPs (2021, 2022, 2024) and has averaged a triple-double the last two seasons. 

1/25/24 – Denver Nuggets vs. New York Knicks at Madison Square Garden – Denver Nuggets center Nikola Jokic #15 reacts on the court during the first quarter. Charles Wenzelberg / New York Post

Jokic hasn’t averaged fewer than 24 points per game since 2019-20 and has shot well from downtown the last few years, too. 

For the second straight season, Jokic was the MVP runner-up behind Shai Gilgeous-Alexander, as he averaged 27.7 points per game on 56.9 percent shooting. 

He also led the league with 12.9 rebounds and 10.7 assists per game. 

Despite Jokic’s heroics, the Nuggets lost to the Timberwolves in the first round of the playoffs and haven’t advanced past the second round since winning the title in 2023.

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Utah Jazz vs Memphis Grizzlies recap and final score: The NBA deserves better scouts

SALT LAKE CITY, UT - JULY 6: Darryn Peterson #22 of the Utah Jazz dribbles the ball during the game against the Memphis Grizzlies during the 2026 NBA Salt Lake City Summer League on July 6, 2026 at Jon M. Huntsman Center in Salt Lake City, Utah. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and or using this Photograph, User is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement. Mandatory Copyright Notice: Copyright 2026 NBAE (Photo by Melissa Majchrzak/NBAE via Getty Images) | NBAE via Getty Images

Darryn Peterson took over the media world two days ago in the Utes’ own Huntsman Center. A 28-point debut? Theoretically implausible. But what about Peterson’s eight turnovers? Maybe he isn’t a winning player. Maybe he is just as selfish as everyone said he was.

That would’ve been my conclusion if I hadn’t watched Peterson completely take over the floor against the #3 pick in a duel with the Grizzlies. Stat-sheet analysts warned us not to pass up on the family reunion by returning Cam Boozer to his father in Salt Lake. But the Jazz let that opportunity pass in hopes of a much larger ceiling with Darryn Peterson.

Turns out the ‘that boy nice’ Fanclub had the advantage over the Stat Sheet Fanclub. Utah won its second consecutive game in Utah in a 109-100 finish. Jazz subtly had the edge over Memphis all night. They just looked like they were on a completely different level from these young cubs.

We found out earlier today that Ace Bailey wouldn’t be participating in this one; the team hasn’t ruled him out for Las Vegas, but they’re being extra cautious moving forward.

In what many were anticipating, rather than a measly World Cup match for the US, this Salt Lake City Summer League game lived up to the hype. You couldn’t write a better opening: Peterson took the first shot and nailed the turnaround jumper. Boozer answered with a pull-up triple on the other side. AJ Dybantsa utters a profanity on the other side of the country, as Washington gets no early Summer League hoops.

Peterson’s media takeover took away some love from some of the other young Jazzlings. Blake Hinson is much more fun to watch when he isn’t costing your team a lottery ball. After losing over 25 pounds, he looked like he had a higher motor and shot the lights out of the building.

The non-rostered guys left a huge impression in their second game. 6-7, near 260 pounds, Eric Dixon is more agile than he looks. He netted 11 points and 6 rebounds in 16 minutes, which included 2 triples on the box score. Like Luka to Hayes, Utah native Jaxon Kohler was absolutely feeding off dimes from Peterson. He scored 6 of his 8 points in three consecutive possessions. Justin Harmon plays with a motor that is difficult to match, diving for loose balls and showing the energy on defense every coach wants to see.

Alright, settle down, everyone. Let’s discuss Darryn Peterson. He crowned himself in front of Boozer, we can only officially crown Peterson as the top rookie over Dybantsa once they finish their duel Thursday night in Las Vegas. DP hit the 20-point mark once again in the third quarter, finishing with 25. The real story, however, was the all-around game he displayed. He totalled 12 assists in 27 minutes; a polar opposite of what he displayed against the Hawks.

He once mentioned back at the combine that he wanted to show more of his point guard abilities at the NBA level. The impression he left tonight is going to make him so much more valuable as a secondary playmaker next to Keyonte. We saw how well that worked for the Knicks at the NBA Finals.

Jazz fans have to be giggling and kicking their feet like a teenage girl, because Peterson already looks like a five-year veteran in his limited sample size. He IS the closer, he can get HIS shot, and he WILL be the future. We deserve not to be suffering for once.

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Brad Stevens admits salary cap reason behind Celtics’ shocking Jaylen Brown trade

An image collage containing 2 images, Image 1 shows Jaylen Brown dribbling past Paul George who is on the ground, Image 2 shows Boston Celtics president of basketball operations Brad Stevens speaks during a media availability at The Auerbach Center on July 06, 2026 in Boston, Massachusetts.

Celtics president of basketball operations Brad Stevens spent Monday afternoon trying to justify trading away Jaylen Brown as Boston fans stewed in anger and confusion over seeing another star depart the organization. 

Brown was traded to the rival 76ers in a deal that included the Celtics receiving Paul George and draft picks, which Stevens said helped give Boston “optionality” going forward.

The Celtics executive expressed appreciation for Brown’s contributions to the organization, but outright said that he did not want 70 percent of their salary cap tied up between two players — Brown and Jayson Tatum. 

Even with Stevens saying Monday that Brown’s contract made it more difficult to field a competitive roster, the decision to trade the star has still been a shock after he produced an MVP-caliber campaign during the 2025-26 season. 

Boston Celtics president of basketball operations Brad Stevens speaks during a media availability at The Auerbach Center on July 06, 2026 in Boston, Massachusetts. Getty Images

“We’re not up here to defend ourselves in this decision, which will certainly be scrutinized,” Stevens said. “We’re OK with that. We’re more so trying to deal with the emotions of Jaylen not being here.”

George’s contract is slightly more cap-friendly than Brown’s, with George having a cap hit of $57.7 million this upcoming season and a player option for 2027-28 that has a cap hit of $56.5 million.

Brown has three more years on his deal, with him being owed the same amount this coming season, while making $61.6 million the following season and $65.6 million for the 2028-29 campaign. 

“I think when you choose the term ‘optionality,’ you’re talking about just length of contract and assets, so that’s where the increased optionality comes from,” Stevens said when asked directly about the similar salaries. “And listen, we’re going to have to lean on our depth. This is a big part of this.”

Stevens denied that Brown was disgruntled or that the Celtics had been upset with him, and expressed appreciation for his 10 years in Boston, describing the former Celtics star as “a meaningful person in all of our lives.” 

“We all appreciate Jaylen. We’ve all enjoyed having Jaylen as a teammate. I think he’s got great relationships from here,” Stevens said. 

Jaylen Brown (7) drives to the basket against Philadelphia 76ers forward Paul George (8) during the first half of Game 2 of a first-round NBA playoffs basketball series, April 21, 2026. AP Photo/Charles Krupa

Celtics owner Bill Chisholm also addressed the growing feeling that there has been some mandate from ownership to bring down the team’s roster salary. 

Since the Celtics’ title run in 2024, Boston has seen Jrue Holiday and Kristaps Porzingis, among others, depart the franchise. Chisholm pushed back on that, saying all decisions were basketball ones. 

“It’s not about the money at all. This was trying to put together the right set of players and assets to win,” he said. “That’s what this was about. … None of these were about money. We have some more room now, like if we see something we wanted, Brad’s got the green light to do that.”

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Juan Soto, Luis Torrens deliver clutch hits to power Mets' comeback win over Braves in extra innings

The Mets engineered a miraculous comeback thanks to late-inning heroics at the plate, winning a 7-6 thriller against the Atlanta Braves.

New York leaves Atlanta with a four-game split of the series against its bitter NL East rival.

Here are the takeaways...

-- Rookie outfielder Carson Benge got the scoring started in the top of the second inning, timing up a Reynaldo Lopez slider and launching it to left-center field for a solo home run.

-- In the bottom half of the second, the Braves retook the lead, 2-1. Mets starter Freddy Peralta allowed singles to Dominic Smith, Jim Jarvis, and Michael Harris II, and first baseman Jared Young made a fielding error on a Mike Yastrzemski short-hopper which advanced both Braves runners which came around to score.

-- Braves All-Star first baseman Matt Olson led off the bottom of the third inning, jumping all over a Peralta changeup and sending it into the right-field seats, making the score 3-1 in favor of Atlanta. 

-- With a man on first and one out in the bottom of the fourth, Benge made a difficult diving grab in right field to rob Yastrzemskiof a hit, helping Peralta keep the Braves off the board in the inning.

-- Benge, on the run to the warning track, was unable to haul in a long fly ball off the bat of Ozzie Albies as he led off the bottom of the fifth. It was ruled a double. The Braves wound up with runners on second and third with one out following a Peralta walk and a wild pitch. Peralta was able to record the second out of the inning by striking out Mauricio Dubon, and was subsequently pulled from the game by manager Andy Green to bring in southpaw Cionel Perez to face Smith, Atlanta's lefty DH. Braves manager Walt Weiss refused to cede an advantage at the dish, and sent in righty Joey Bart to pinch-hit for Smith. Perez only needed one pitch to get Bart to ground out, ending the inning without allowing any further damage to the Mets' 3-1 deficit.

-- Peralta's final line tonight was a mixed bag. He was inefficient, completing just 4.2 innings pitched and throwing 103 pitches, allowing six hits. However, of his three runs allowed, just one was earned, and he struck out six Braves batters to just one walk. His ERA for the season now stands at 4.68.

-- Bo Bichette led off the sixth inning with a single up the middle, and with one out, Benge recorded his second opposite-field extra-base hit of the night, splitting Atlanta's left and right fielders with a double. However, Atlanta's defense executed a perfect cutoff relay to home plate, gunning down Bichette before he could slide into home and keeping the score at 3-1. After Young narrowly beat out a throw to pick up an infield single and move Benge to third base, it was Francisco Alvarez who came up clutch with a two out knock, ripping a single through the infield to bring home Benge. Braves reliever Didier Fuentes struck out Brett Baty to strand one Mets runner in scoring position and end the inning with the score 3-2.

-- Amid a "tarps off" frenzy at Truist Park, the Braves managed to get two runners into scoring position with two outs, but Mets reliever A.J. Minter -- honored by his former ballclub with a pregame tribute video -- struck out Bart to end the seventh inning.

-- Right-handed pitcher Guillo Zuniga made his Mets debut in the eighth inning, and he impressed, working a scoreless frame to keep his team within one run.

-- With the Mets down to their final three outs, Alvarez and Ronny Mauricio roped singles off of Braves closer Raisel Iglesias to put runners on first and second base with one out. A.J. Ewing flied out to right field to move pinch-runner Tyrone Taylor up to third base, bringing Soto to the dish with two outs and men on first and third. On a 3-1 count, Iglesias challenged Soto with a fastball, high and tight. The slugger turned on it and sent it skyward, 430 feet, just inside the foul pole, a three-run shot to put the Mets on top 5-3, their first lead of the game. This blown save ended Iglesias's streak of 35 straight saves, which dated back nearly a year.

-- With Mets closer Devin Williams on the hill for the save opportunity, Albies led off the bottom of the ninth and knocked his second double of the night into the alley in right-center. The next batter was Olson, who sent a Williams pitch which tailed high and away in the zone to the opposite field. Soto could only watch as the ball flew over the wall, as Olson's second homer of the game tied the game, 5-5. With two outs and Braves runners at second and third, Green swapped Williams out, inserting left-handed reliever Brooks Raley to face the lefty Yastrzemski, who was promptly sent to the bench in favor of righty pinch-hitter Jose Azocar. Raley struck out Azocar to send the game to extra innings.

-- Former first-rounder Owen Murphy made his MLB debut for the Braves in the 10th, with Bichette on second base as the ghost runner. With two outs and Bichette still at second base, Young was hit by a pitch, and Luis Torrens -- his first at-bat of the night, substituted into the game for Tyrone Taylor, who had pinch-run for Alvarez an inning earlier -- sent a double down the left-field line to score both runners and restore a two-run lead for the Mets, 7-5.

-- Right-handed reliever Luke Weaver made his second straight appearance, and with one out, Harris II drove a double down the right-field line to score the "ghost runner" and cut the Mets lead to one run. Weaver battled back, stranding the potential tying run in scoring position by striking out Albies for the second out, intentionally walking Olson, walking Jorge Mateo on a 3-2 count to load the bases, and finally getting Dubon to ground a ball that was put away at second base for the force out. A 7-6 Mets victory in 10 innings.

Game MVP: Juan Soto

The three-out home run, which turned a potential loss to a two-run lead, immediately becomes a signature moment for Soto's time in a Mets uniform. 

Highlights

What's next

The Mets return to Citi Field on Tuesday night for a three-game series with the Kansas City Royals. First pitch scheduled for 7:10 p.m. on SNY.

The starting pitcher for the Mets has not yet been decided.

Right-handed pitcher Seth Lugo (3-6, 4.20 ERA), who spent seven seasons with the Mets, is expected to start for the Royals.

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Braves lose coin-flip game after a solid start from Reynaldo Lopez

ATLANTA, GA - JULY 6: Reynaldo López #40 of the Atlanta Braves pitches in the first inning during the game against the New York Mets at Truist Park on July 6, 2026 in Atlanta, Georgia. (Photo by Matthew Grimes Jr./Atlanta Braves/Getty Images) | Getty Images

Looking for a series win in a four game series, the Braves had Reynaldo Lopez on the mound, hoping to build on his last start against Freddy Peralta and the Mets.

Michael Harris gave Atlanta a chance to take an early lead in the first with a leadoff single, but Peralta got out of it with two strikeouts and a flyout. Carson Benge led of the second with a solo homer to give New York a 1-0 lead. Singles from Dominic Smith and Mike Yastrzemski allowed a bloop single from Jim Jarvis to bring home a run, as the Mets’ offense was a major factor in the Yaz and Jarvis hits. Harris followed Jarvis with an opposite-field single on a pitch way outside the strike zone to bring home another run and give Atlanta the lead.

Lopez worked through a walk and a single to keep the Mets at 1 run in the third and Matt Olson came right out with a leadoff solo homer in the bottom of the frame to extend the lead.

Peralta found himself in some trouble after a leadoff Ozzie double in the fifth and ultimately was pulled with men on second and third but two outs. Perez was first out of the New York bullpen and got Joey Bart to ground out, ending the threat. Didier Fuentes got the sixth and got into some trouble with a single, double, single, and single that only scored one run due to a fantastic relay throw from Jim Jarvis and a great diving play from Dubon, allowing the Braves to exit the inning with a 3-2 lead.

Dylan Lee took over for the seventh inning and walked two but got a double play to escape the inning. AJ Minter took the seventh for New York and allowed a Baldwin single and a Dubon double, but struck out Bart to hold the 3-2 score. Tyler Kinley took the ball in the eighth and walked Benge with one out, but got some help from a great play by Olson to turn an inning-ending double-play. Raisel Iglesias came in for the save after another nothing from the offense and gave up two singles but recorded two outs before facing Juan Soto with runners on the corners, two outs, and the game on the line. Juan Soto won that matchup, hooking a homer just inside the foul pole into the Chop House, giving the Mets a 5-3 lead and giving Iglesias his first blown save of the season. The Braves could have walked Soto, but chose to face him instead and paid the price.

This Braves team wasn’t done though, as Ozzie Albies led off the ninth with a double on Devin Williams. Matt Olson came through massively with his second home run of the night, tying the game up, still with no outs in the inning. Drake Baldwin followed Matt’s blast with a single and Dubon moved him to second with a fielder’s choice. Joey Bart then came up for his third chance with runners in scoring position and walked, passing the baton to Austin Riley in what could have been a big moment for him. Instead, a swinging bunt moved the runners over, but set up a two out situation for Mike Yastrzemski to try and avoid extra innings. The Mets took the opportunity to bring in a lefty reliever and the Braves countered with…Jose Azocar, who struck out on three pitches to send the game to extra innings.

It was at this point that Owen Murphy got to make his MLB debut and recorded two contact outs that moved the ghost runner to third before hitting a batter. He then went up 0-2 on Torrens before allowing a two-RBI double, giving the Mets a 7-5 lead. Owen recorded his first major league strikeout to end the inning on Brett Baty. Jim Jarvis started the bottom of the frame poorly, with a swinging bunt out. Michael Harris gave the Braves life with a one-out RBI double, after successfully challenging a called strike 3 to extend his at-bat. Ozzie Albies struck out, leaving the Mets to intentionally walk Matt Olson. This handed the keys of the game to Jorge Mateo, who drew a walk to hand things over to Mauricio Dubon with the bases loaded and two outs. Dubon grounded out to seal a loss in what was very much a coin-flip game that the Braves just couldn’t win, splitting the series.