Mets Off to a Promising Start in July with Victory over Giants
NEW YORK — After a disappointing month of June, the New York Mets were eager to turn things around in July. They got off to a strong start on the first day of the month with a 4-1 victory over the San Francisco Giants at Citi Field.
Right-hander Justin Verlander delivered an outstanding performance on the mound, pitching seven innings and allowing just one unearned run. He struck out six batters to secure his third win of the season. Verlander displayed his dominance, only allowing three baserunners through his first 18 batters faced.
Mets manager Buck Showalter expressed his satisfaction with the team’s performance, stating, “We got July off to a good start. We’re hoping to build on it.”
While Verlander’s excellent pitching was crucial, the Mets also received solid run support. In the third inning, the team played home run derby against Giants starter Anthony DeSclafani. Francisco Alvarez hit a solo home run, followed by back-to-back homers from Luis Guillorme and Francisco Lindor. It marked the first time the Mets hit three home runs in an inning since October 4 of last year.
Brandon Nimmo, who hit one of the home runs, remarked on the significance of his performance, saying, “Put a punctuation mark on hitting the hardest homer of my career so far.”
Verlander faced his toughest inning in the seventh when he allowed the Giants’ only run. Despite some pressure with runners in scoring position, the Mets’ defense held strong, and Verlander managed to eliminate the threat with a crucial strikeout.
Verlander attributed his success to working on new mechanics before the game. He felt that his performance against the Giants was his best of the season and a step in the right direction to build momentum.
Going into July, the Mets aim to continue their winning ways. The team is determined to replicate Saturday’s game as they strive for more consistent success. Mets outfielder Nimmo emphasized the importance of maintaining their strong performance, stating, “It’s definitely what this team is designed to do, just more of it in the future is what we need.”
With July underway, the Mets are hopeful that their victory over the Giants is a sign of better things to come. After a challenging month of June, New York is determined to regain their winning form and climb in the standings.