This is a 10* on the METS

These teams played two yesterday. The Mets won the first game 11-9, but then the Nationals bounced back with a 4-3 win in the nightcap. What was notable about that first game is the Mets blew a nine-run lead. They needed a 2-run HR by Francisco Lindor in the ninth to win it. It was their sixth straight win as well as Washington’s seventh straight loss. The Mets had previously never blown an eight-run lead and lost. It was similar on Friday when they needed extra innings after blowing a two-run lead going into the ninth. We wouldn’t put too much stock in Washington winning the second game Saturday. It’s tough to sweep a doubleheader. What we do know is the Mets should be the more motivated team heading into Sunday’s series finale. They are 3.5 games back of Atlanta for the division lead and 4.5 games back of the Wild Card. The Nationals are a last place team simply playing out the string. Taijuan Walker, who will start today’s game for the Mets, is really due for a win. He has an 0-7 team start record his past seven starts despite having a 0.80 WHIP in the previous three. Those last three starts were all against either the Dodgers or Giants, the two best teams. Josiah Gray just gave up six runs in his last start for the Nationals. He’s allowed at least one home run in every start he’s made this season. Play on NY METS

AAA