Mets pitching unravels in blowout loss to Nationals

The New York Mets were overwhelmed in a 14-2 loss to the Washington Nationals on Wednesday night at Citi Field, falling to a 10-20 record as Washington improved to 14-17. New York’s pitching staff struggled, with David Peterson allowing two runs in the first inning before Washington broke the game open in the fourth with a seven-run outburst. Peterson was charged with seven runs on five hits and three walks over 3.2 innings. Sean Manaea entered in relief but could not stop the momentum, issuing a bases-loaded hit-by-pitch before allowing a grand slam. He surrendered five more runs over the next two innings. Offensively, the Mets showed limited production, with Juan Soto providing the highlight with a solo home run and three hits. Marcus Semien added a pair of singles, but the Mets struggled to sustain rallies and hit into key double plays. Carl Edwards Jr. offered a bright spot out of the bullpen, striking out six batters over 2.2 innings despite allowing a run. The Mets wrap up the series Thursday, with Freddy Peralta set to take the mound as New York looks to bounce back in the series finale.