Kumar Rocker got his revenge against the former team he never actually played for.
The Rangers starter, who the Mets drafted in the first round of the 2021 draft but didn’t sign, helped Texas (79-80) beat the Mets (73-86) 3-1 on Thursday to avoid the sweep.
Carson Benge by Roberto Carlo
The Mets jumped out to a first-inning lead against Rocker on a Carson Benge RBI single to score Francisco Lindor. But Texas took the lead back in their first at-bat on a Josh Jung two-run homer off Zac Thornton, and that’s all they needed. New York managed just four hits, including a double by Nick Morabito, against Rocker and four Rangers relievers.
Rocker went the first five innings with one run allowed on three hits and two walks while striking out four.
Thornton capped off a strong rookie season by allowing two runs on four hits with a walk and four strikeouts over five innings. He was replaced by Jefry Yan, who immediately surrendered a homer to Corey Seager. Adam Warren and Jack Weisenburger kept the Mets in the game with scoreless outings, but the Mets offense was silent.
“I always thought I’d be up here this year, I didn’t know to what extent it would be,” Thornton said after his final 2026 start. “I wouldn’t say I surprised myself. I feel everywhere I’ve gone to pitch I’ve succeeded.”
With the win, the Rangers remained took a half-game lead over the Houston Astros in the AL West.
Player of the Game
Thornton ended his rookie year with another solid outing. He finishes with a 3.42 ERA and 1.14 WHIP in 15 starts.
On Deck
The Mets close out their season with three games against the Nationals in D.C. New York hasn’t named a starter, while the Nats will go with lefty Andrew Alvarez (2–6, 3.17 ERA). First pitch is 6:45 PM ET and the game airs on WPIX.
