Pete Alonso's 3-run homer powers the Mets to a 6-2 win over the Rays on June 13, 2025, for their 7th straight victory amid injury news for Kodai Senga.
StatPro MLB Beat Reporter
The good times just keep rolling in Queens. The New York Mets extended their red-hot winning streak to seven games on Friday night, handling the Tampa Bay Rays with a decisive 6-2 victory at a buzzing Citi Field. Pete Alonso played the hero with a towering fifth-inning home run, as the first-place Mets improved their stellar record to 46-24. But the celebration was tinged with caution, as the team officially dealt with the fallout from an injury to a key starter.
'We're hopeful it's a mild strain, but we'll know more after the MRI.' - Manager Carlos Mendoza on Kodai Senga's injury.
The Mets' offense was methodical, capped by a moment of pure power. With the game tight, Pete Alonso stepped to the plate in the fifth inning and launched a three-run homer, his 7th of the season, to break the game open. Francisco Lindor continued his excellent play, adding two hits and scoring twice. On the mound, Clay Holmes was his usual dominant self, earning his 8th win with six strong innings where he allowed just two runs and struck out seven. The bullpen was flawless, tossing three scoreless frames, with Edwin Díaz shutting the door in the ninth to seal the 6-2 win over Rays loser Taj Bradley.
While the team on the field was firing on all cylinders, the club delivered some unfortunate but expected news. Ace Kodai Senga was officially placed on the 15-day injured list with the hamstring strain he suffered in Thursday's start. Manager Carlos Mendoza expressed cautious optimism, but the team will hold its breath pending MRI results. Losing Senga, who had been lights-out before his exit, is a significant blow to the top of the rotation and puts more pressure on the remaining starters to eat innings.
With Senga sidelined, the front office made a move to bolster the pitching staff. Right-hander Max Kranick was recalled from Triple-A Syracuse, where he has been impressive this season, posting a 3.21 ERA across 11 starts. The 27-year-old will provide much-needed depth and a fresh arm for the bullpen, a critical addition as the Mets are currently in the middle of a grueling stretch of 17 games in 17 days. It's a classic 'next man up' scenario for a team that will need contributions from everyone.
The Kranick call-up is a reminder of the importance of the farm system, which continues to be a source of strength for the organization. Top prospects Brandon Sproat, Jett Williams, and Carson Benge are all making noise at the upper levels of the minors. More importantly for the immediate future, right-handed pitchers Nolan McLean and Jonah Tong are turning heads with their performances and could be candidates for a promotion later this season if they continue on their current trajectories, providing even more pitching insurance for the big-league club.
The Mets are riding high on a seven-game winning streak, proving they are a force in the National League. However, the coming weeks will be a true test of this team's character and depth. Navigating a tough schedule without their ace, Kodai Senga, will require the entire pitching staff, including newcomer Max Kranick, to step up. The Mets have the momentum, but now they must prove their resilience.
