For the final time this season at home, the New York Mets have “put it in the books” for the 2026 home season. Unfortunately, the season and this home finale did not go as the Mets had hoped, as they lost the Sunday matinee 7-2 against the Philadelphia Phillies, ending their series with a record of 6-7 against their rivals from Philadelphia. The Mets finish 2026 at Citi Field with a 36-45 record.

Cristopher Sanchez was on the mound for the Phillies, delivering a strong performance by limiting the Mets’ offense to just two runs over 6 1/3 innings, while striking out six batters and allowing six hits. Alex McFarlane came in to relieve Sanchez, and after the Mets started a rally in the seventh inning, he managed to halt their momentum by getting Francisco Lindor to pop out for an infield fly and striking out Juan Soto.

On the flip side, Jonah Tong struggled on the mound for the Mets, only going 4 and 2/3 innings. He gave up four early runs, walked four batters, allowed five hits, and recorded five strikeouts, throwing 29 pitches in the first inning alone. Tong was also accidentally spiked by Phillies infielder Bryson Stott at first base early in the game but continued to pitch.

Jack Weisenburger and Jefry Yan provided scoreless innings, but things fell apart when Kodai Senga entered the game. Senga managed to get one out but then walked the bases loaded and allowed a bases-clearing triple to Justin Crawford, which effectively sealed the victory for Philadelphia. Senga struggled with his control during most of his outing and did not finish the eighth inning.

Austin Warren came in to relieve Senga, with the Mets walking four batters in the top of the eighth. Warren would come out for a second inning and would pitch a scoreless frame.

Aside from Bo Bichette‘s home run in the bottom of the sixth inning and Brett Baty‘s RBI single in the bottom of the seventh, the Mets’ offense had another lackluster performance. New York left six runners on base and went 1-for-6 with runners in scoring position, with Francisco Alvarez being the only player to record multiple hits during the game. A.J. Ewing went 2-for-2 after coming into the game for Nick Morabito.

After the final out, the entire New York Mets dugout walked over to behind home plate and raised their caps and helmets to salute Howie Rose.

Player of the Game: Howie Rose

For nearly 40 years, Howie Rose was a prominent voice for the Mets, whether through pregame or postgame shows on television or radio. He is one of the best in the business. Throughout numerous highs and countless lows, Howie provided fans with a soundtrack for many summers, skillfully painting a vivid picture of each game and guiding us through the season alongside his partner. As a fan himself, he connected with the emotions that fans experienced throughout the games, making the broadcasts enjoyable for everyone who listened.

Congratulations to Howie Rose on an illustrious career and a well-deserved retirement!

On Deck

The Mets are off Monday but will travel to Arlington, Texas, and Globe Life Field to take on the Texas Rangers on Tuesday. Sean Manaea (5-7, 4.74 ERA) will start on the mound for the Mets, while the Rangers have not announced a starter for the series opener. First pitch will take place at 8:05 pm ET and will be broadcast on SNY and Mets Radio 880.