Mets Bats Go Cold, Fall to Pirates 4-3 in Extras

Mets' late comeback falls short as bullpen struggles in loss to Pittsburgh

Mar. 29, 2026 at 8:50pm

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The New York Mets were unable to overcome a cold offensive performance and a late bullpen implosion, falling to the Pittsburgh Pirates 4-3 in extra innings at Citi Field. The Mets struck out 16 times and managed just 3 runs over the final 18 innings, as reliever Richard Lovelady blew the save in the 10th inning.

Why it matters

This loss marks the Mets' first defeat of the 2026 season and raises early concerns about the team's offensive production and bullpen depth. The Mets were expected to contend for the playoffs this year, so this setback could set the tone for a challenging start to their campaign.

The details

The Pirates took a 2-0 lead early on RBI hits from Ryan O'Hearn and Brandon Lowe, but the Mets answered with runs in the 2nd and 5th innings to tie it at 2-2. In the 10th, O'Hearn's RBI single gave the Pirates a 3-2 lead, and an insurance run from Henry Davis made it 4-2. The Mets scored 1 run in the bottom of the 10th but couldn't complete the comeback.

  • The game was played on Sunday, March 29, 2026 at Citi Field in New York.
  • The Mets entered the game with a 2-0 record to start the 2026 season.

The players

Richard Lovelady

A Mets relief pitcher who blew the save in the 10th inning, walking two batters and allowing the go-ahead run to score.

Ryan O'Hearn

A Pirates outfielder who drove in two runs, including the go-ahead RBI single in the 10th inning.

Juan Soto

A Mets outfielder who drove in a run with a double in the 10th inning to cut the deficit to 1 run.

Francisco Lindor

A Mets infielder who was thrown out at home plate in the 10th inning, preventing the Mets from tying the game.

Nolan McLean

The Pirates starting pitcher who gutted out 5 innings, allowing 2 runs with 8 strikeouts.

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What they’re saying

“We just couldn't get the bats going today. Credit to their pitching, but we have to find a way to produce more offensively, especially late in games.”

— Francisco Lindor, Mets Infielder

What’s next

The Mets will look to bounce back in their next series against the Philadelphia Phillies, starting on March 31st.

The takeaway

This loss highlights the Mets' need to find more consistency at the plate and solidify their bullpen if they hope to contend in the NL East this season. The team's high-powered offense was held in check, and the late-inning collapse by the relief corps proved costly.