On a rainy day in the nation’s capital, the New York Mets had to piece together a win against the Nationals.
After two rain delays, New York’s pitching propelled the Mets to a 2-0 win. The combination of Clay Holmes, Danny Young, Reed Garrett, A.J. Minter, Max Kranick, and Edwin Díaz took them over the finish line on Saturday. Francisco Alvarez, who returned to the lineup on Friday night, gave New York its only runs of the day with a two-run home run.
Apr 26, 2025; Washington, District of Columbia, USA; New York Mets catcher Francisco Alvarez (4) hits a two-run home run against the Washington Nationals during the second inning at Nationals Park. Mandatory Credit: Brad Mills-Imagn Images
Clay Holmes Has Most Efficient Outing So Far
It’s been an interesting transition for Holmes to a starting pitcher after years in the bullpen. New York has seen the positives, but Holmes has tended to lose it as the game progresses. However, if not for a second rain delay, Holmes could’ve gone deep into this game. He was very much in control of the game. He forced 10 groundouts in his 5 innings of work, and Washington’s offense was having trouble against him all day. Holmes struck out two in his five-shutout innings and lowered his ERA to 2.64.
Max Kranick In The Clutch Again
Kranick had to earn his way onto the Mets roster, and so far in April, he’s already been asked to do a lot of heavy lifting. A few days ago, against the Philadelphia Phillies, he had to come in cold after Díaz left the game with a cramp. With the bases loaded and 1 out, Kranick retired the side to get out of a jam. Kranick on Saturday had to do it again in the 8th inning after Minter left the game with triceps soreness. With James Wood on first base, Kranick struck out Nathaniel Lowe. Then, after a 10-pitch battle, he got Josh Bell to fly out. It was the biggest moment of this game, and Kranick showed the Mets a lot by coming through in a tough situation again.
El Troll Is Back
The Mets’ offense needs a jolt from someone in the lineup not named Pete Alonso and Francisco Lindor. Speaking of Lindor, he notched three more hits in Saturday’s win. New York hopes that the return of its starting catcher can help give the offense a boost. His home run to the opposite field, which gave the Mets a 2-0 lead, was encouraging.
Player of the Game: Francisco Alvarez
On a day when the Mets lacked much offensively, Alvarez’s home run ended up being the deciding factor in this game.
On Deck
The Mets will send Tylor Megill to the mound on Sunday against Mitchell Parker of the Nationals. The game will be telecast locally on WPIX and broadcast on Audacy Mets Radio WHSQ 880 AM at 1:35 pm EDT.
