New York Mets suffer a fifth straight loss as frustration mounts—are they officially a lost cause in the NL playoff race?

Ryan Finkelstein dissects a deflating defeat to the Cincinnati Reds, spotlighting David Peterson’s rocky start, Mark Vientos’ inconsistency, and continued struggles from Brett Baty and MJ Melendez.

Questionable lineup decisions, including Eric Wagaman’s surprising promotion over Christian Pache and the handling of Nick Morabito, underscore just how dire the team’s options have become.

Roster turmoil deepens the crisis for the Mets, who now sit at 22-33, matching their bleak 2024 start.

Can injured stars Francisco Alvarez, Francisco Lindor, and Jorge Polanco spark a miracle turnaround, or is it already too late?

With pivotal matchups against the Miami Marlins, Seattle Mariners, and Philadelphia Phillies looming, Ryan Finkelstein weighs whether firing Carlos Mendoza or a surprise surge is the Mets’ only hope to salvage this unraveling season.

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