The New York Mets dropped to 34-43 after losing a series to the Philadelphia Phillies on Sunday night, June 21, 2026.
The defeat increased urgency for the front office ahead of the August 3 trade deadline.
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Starting pitcher David Peterson surrendered an early lead, including a second-inning home run to Kyle Schwarber. The team now sits nine games below .
500.
New York's rotation has struggled, posting a 5.49 ERA in the first three innings this season, according to The New York Times.
Outfielder Juan Soto acknowledged the difficulty of falling behind early.
“It’s really tough to give up the lead right away,” Soto said. He added that the team must improve overall, stating, “We’ve got to play better baseball.”
Manager Carlos Mendoza said the players recognize the need for better performance. “They know they have to be better,” he said.
Mendoza emphasized that improvement must start internally, as reinforcements are limited.
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The Mets are without several injured players, including pitcher Clay Holmes, who is out until August with a fractured fibula.
“We have no choice,” Mendoza said.
He expressed confidence in the current roster, saying, “I have no doubt they have the talent and they’re capable of helping us turn this around.”
President of Baseball Operations David Stearns must decide whether to trade veteran pieces like Peterson, who has a 6.09 ERA this season.
Peterson acknowledged the team's disappointing position.
