Fans voice frustration as Justin Verlander struggles in Mets’ disappointing loss to Tampa Bay

A closer look at Justin Verlander's turbulent citi field debut and the Mets' uphill battle to regain momentum

Fans voice frustration as Justin Verlander struggles in Mets’ disappointing loss to Tampa Bay

Justin Verlander ( Image via MLB )

When the New York Mets signed Justin Verlander, they anticipated that the reigning Cy Young Award winner would bring excitement and triumph to the fans at Citi Field. However, Verlander’s first appearance on the mound in Queens was met with a chorus of boos. In his debut since recovering from a teres major strain, the right-hander struggled, allowing six runs on eight hits, including two home runs, in five innings against the Tampa Bay Rays.

As the Mets suffered an 8-5 loss, their record dipped to a season-worst three games below .500. Verlander’s reaction to his performance was candid and self-critical, expressing his determination to turn things around.

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After showcasing promising form in his initial two starts with the Mets, Verlander appeared unsettled during his third outing. Although he managed to escape unscathed after allowing base runners in the first and second innings, the Rays created further pressure in the third.

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A leadoff infield single and a subsequent walk set the stage for Verlander’s first mistake of the night—a hanging breaking ball that was crushed for a three-run homer by Isaac Paredes.

The trouble continued in the fourth inning when Verlander allowed a double and a run-scoring single, further extending the Rays’ lead. In the fifth, Paredes struck again, hitting a two-run homer on an inside fastball. This lackluster performance marked Verlander’s worst start of the season, with a 4.76 ERA in three starts and nine runs conceded over 17 innings.

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Justin Verlander’s honest assessment and the Mets’ struggles

Justin Verlander
Justin Verlander ( Image via MLB )

In a post-game interview, Justin Verlander did not mince words about his feelings regarding his outing. He expressed his disappointment and acknowledged the lack of positives from his performance. However, he also identified it as an opportunity to analyze and address any mechanical issues promptly.

Verlander’s frustration mirrored that of the fans, who voiced their displeasure through boos. Mets manager Buck Showalter acknowledged the fans’ frustrations and emphasized the team’s responsibility to improve and deliver the results that the passionate fanbase deserves.

According to espn, Despite notable offensive contributions from Brett Baty, Pete Alonso, and Eduardo Escobar in the form of home runs, the Mets fell short, leaving Verlander surprised and urging the team to proactively turn their season around.

Justin Verlander’s disappointing outing against the Tampa Bay Rays left both the pitcher and the fans frustrated. After an impressive start to his Mets career, Verlander struggled to find his rhythm, allowing multiple runs and enduring a subpar performance.

However, Verlander did not shy away from self-assessment and acknowledged the need to make adjustments promptly. As the Mets find themselves in a challenging position in the National League East, Verlander expressed his belief that the team must take proactive measures to regain their winning form.

With time, adjustments, and collective effort, the Mets aim to reverse their fortunes and provide fans with the victories they long for at Citi Field.

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