The Atlanta Braves fell 5-3 to the rival Mets on June 18, 2025, despite a late rally from Austin Riley. The loss was compounded by Sean Murphy's IL placement.
StatPro MLB Beat Reporter
It was another one of those nights for the Atlanta Braves. A promising late-game rally fell short in a 5-3 loss to the division-rival New York Mets, and the bad news didn't stop there. The team also placed All-Star catcher Sean Murphy on the 10-day injured list with a left hamstring strain, dealing a significant blow to a club already trying to find its footing.
We’re not where we want to be, but I believe in this group. We just have to keep grinding and the results will come.
The Braves found themselves in an early 4-0 hole at Truist Park, largely thanks to a two-run homer from Mets slugger Pete Alonso. Starter Chris Sale battled through 5 innings, but the four runs allowed were too much to overcome. A seventh-inning, two-run double from Austin Riley ignited hope for a comeback, but Mets closer Edwin Díaz slammed the door in the ninth. The loss, which drops the Braves to 32-40, was another frustrating example of the team's recent struggles, having now lost 7 of their last 10.
Compounding the loss was the official news on Sean Murphy. The catcher's left hamstring strain, suffered in Tuesday's contest, has landed him on the 10-day IL. Team officials expect him to miss at least two weeks, a tough pill to swallow for a lineup that relies on his power and elite defense. Veteran Chadwick Tromp has been recalled from Triple-A Gwinnett to fill the backup role.
It wasn't all bad news on Wednesday. Ozzie Albies continued his hot hitting, extending his hitting streak to 11 games with a 2-for-4 night. His streak is now the longest active one in the National League. Meanwhile, down in Gwinnett, top pitching prospect Hurston Waldrep delivered a masterful performance, striking out 10 batters over six shutout innings. His dominance is a bright spot for the future and raises questions about when he might get his shot in the big-league rotation.
With the team's bullpen showing cracks in June, it's no surprise that the front office is reportedly working the phones. Sources indicate the Braves are actively exploring the trade market for a late-inning reliever, with names like Scott Barlow of the Padres and Kyle Finnegan of the Nationals being mentioned in talks. While no deal is imminent, the message is clear: management recognizes the need for reinforcements ahead of the trade deadline.
Despite the skid, the team's leaders are projecting a message of resilience. 'We're fighting every night,' Austin Riley said on the postgame show. 'Just need to string some wins together.' That sentiment was echoed by Ronald Acuña Jr., who posted a postgame workout video captioned 'Still grinding. We’ll be back,' and by manager Brian Snitker, who remains confident in his clubhouse.
While the current stretch is testing the patience of Braves Country, the season is far from over. The front office is clearly looking to make moves, and young talent is knocking on the door. As the team prepares for a weekend series featuring a Friday fireworks show and appearances from franchise legends, the hope is that a little hometown magic—and perhaps a new bullpen arm—can help turn the tide.
