Emerging
Published Jun 26, 2026Updated Jun 26 Major2
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Mets Host Phillies in Three-Game Series After Brutal Losing Streak
The New York Mets host the Philadelphia Phillies on Friday in the first of a three-game series, looking to rebound from a devastating six-game losing streak that included a sweep by the Cubs. The Phillies bring stronger recent form (7-3 in last ten games) into the matchup at Citi Field.
Quick Facts
- Three-game series
- Mets on six-game losing streak
- Recent Cubs sweep of Mets
- Phillies defeated Mets in previous series
- Mets made six errors in doubleheader against Cubs
The New York Mets will host the Philadelphia Phillies on Friday, June 26, 2026, at 7:10 p.m. EDT in the opening game of a three-game series at Citi Field. The Mets (34-47, fifth in NL East) enter the matchup in dire straits following a six-game losing streak that included a devastating sweep by the Chicago Cubs and earlier losses to the Phillies. The Phillies (45-36, second in NL East) come in after winning two of three games against the Mets last weekend and bring momentum into the series.
The Mets' recent performance has been historically poor. Over their last ten games, they are 2-8 with a .239 batting average, 6.52 ERA, and have been outscored by 36 runs. The Cubs sweep was particularly embarrassing, with the Mets losing all seven games against Chicago this season. In the recent four-game series at Citi Field, the Mets made costly defensive mistakes—including six errors in a doubleheader—and were outscored decisively. Cubs shortstop Dansby Swanson dominated the series, driving in 15 runs across four games.
The Phillies present a much stronger opponent. Over their last ten games, Philadelphia is 7-3 with a .287 batting average, 4.35 ERA, and have outscored opponents by 27 runs. The team has a .402 slugging percentage, ranking eighth in the National League. Star outfielder Bryce Harper leads the Phillies with 14 doubles, two triples, and 18 home runs, while Brandon Marsh has been particularly productive recently, going 14 for 42 with four home runs over the past ten games.
For the Mets, there are limited bright spots. Francisco Alvarez has shown recent offensive improvement, hitting .294 with four home runs since returning from the injured list on June 9, and he went 12 for 37 with three home runs over the past ten games. Carson Benge leads the team with 10 doubles, two triples, and nine home runs. However, the Mets remain heavily plagued by injuries, with players including Marcus Semien, Jorge Polanco, Luis Robert, Clay Holmes, and Tylor Megill on the injured list.
Pitching matchups feature Phillies right-hander Zack Wheeler (0-0) against a Mets starter to be determined. The Phillies are favored in the contest at -162, with the Mets at +133 and an over/under of 8 runs. This is the fourth matchup between the teams this season. The teams have faced each other previously, with the Phillies winning two of three in their last series, and both squads will be fighting for division positioning as the season enters its second half.
Topics
Why This Matters
For Mets fans and baseball enthusiasts tracking NL East standings, this series represents a critical inflection point. The Mets' 2-8 record over their last ten games and six-game losing streak threaten their divisional relevance, while the Phillies' momentum (7-3 in ten games) makes them formidable opponents. How the Mets respond offensively and defensively—especially after defensive lapses (six errors in one doubleheader) and injuries to key players—will signal whether they can compete down the stretch or face a rebuilding summer.
Timeline & Sources
Jun 26, 2026
WireMets host Phillies, first game of three-game series; Zack Wheeler to pitch for Phillies