Deadspin | As Mets lay foundation for 2027, Nationals struggle to get relief

The New York Mets are trying to build momentum toward 2027 while pushing the Washington Nationals further back in the NL wild-card race. After losing four of their past five games, the Nationals visit Citi Field for the Sunday finale of a three-game series. New York aims to complete a sweep with Christian Scott (3-3, 3.45 ERA) starting against Jake Irvin (2-6, 5.79). The Mets won again Saturday on Francisco Lindor’s ninth-inning walk-off RBI single, improving to 15-12 since the Aug. 3 trade deadline. That surge has been powered by youngsters and minor-league veterans. Washington’s bullpen has struggled, and the loss put the club 6 1/2 games behind the wild-card pack.