High-spending Mets assured of first last-place finish since 2003 with 7-6 loss to Nationals

The New York Mets, known for their high spending, have been confirmed to finish last in their division for the first time since 2003. This loss to the Washington Nationals 7-6 on Friday night was sealed by Josiah Gray's first major league save in over two years, marking his first home appearance since April 2024. The Mets' payroll of $358.4 million began the season, but the team has been last in the NL East for seven consecutive seasons since the 2019 World Series win.

Dylan Crews hit a homer for the Nationals, who sit at 76-84 and are guaranteed fourth place. Carson Benge also homered for the Mets, becoming the first rookie in team history to achieve 20 homers and 20 steals in a single season. Josiah Gray's performance in his return to Nationals Park was crucial, handling Juan Soto's ninth-inning walk before grounding out Bichette.

Gus Varland and Jonathan Pintaro were the other pitchers for the Mets, with Gus having a 2-2 record and Jonathan a 2-3 record. The Mets now face the Nationals again on Saturday, with Gus Tong set to start.