Mets rookie Blade Tidwell struggles in MLB debut, team loses to Cardinals 6-5

In his major league debut, New York Mets pitcher Blade Tidwell struggled against the St. Louis Cardinals, giving up six earned runs on nine hits and three walks over 3 2/3 innings, as the Mets lost 6-5 in the first game of a doubleheader. Tidwell, who flashed a fastball reaching up to 98 mph, managed two strikeouts but was undone by a four-run fourth inning, highlighted by two-out, two-run singles from Brendan Donovan and Willson Contreras. Despite early leads supported by hits from Pete Alonso, Brandon Nimmo, and Jesse Winker, the Mets couldn't capitalize on several scoring opportunities, finishing 3-for-15 with runners in scoring position and leaving 12 on base. The Mets attempted a late comeback, narrowing the deficit to one run in the eighth inning, but failed to complete it. Jesse Winker exited the game with right side discomfort, adding to the team's challenges. Following the game, Tidwell was optioned back to the minors, with reliever Dedniel Núñez recalled for the nightcap.