The New York Mets suffered a frustrating 5-4 defeat to the Washington Nationals on Thursday afternoon at Citi Field, dropping the final game of their three-game series. The loss extended the Mets’ ongoing challenges this season, as they were unable to hold a late lead against their division rivals.

The Nationals secured a come-from-behind victory in the top of the eighth inning. With a runner on base and the Mets leading by one run, Washington’s CJ Abrams hit a decisive two-run home run off Mets pitcher Luke Weaver. This swing put the Nationals ahead 5-3 and shifted momentum firmly in their favor. Weaver’s performance remains a concern for New York, as his ERA since joining the team from the Yankees has climbed to 6.00.

The Mets attempted to respond in the bottom half of the inning, with Juan Soto delivering a leadoff double that briefly raised the prospect of a rally. However, Soto was unable to advance beyond second base, and the Mets failed to close the gap further.

Earlier in the game, the Nationals had taken control with a 3-0 lead. The Mets showed some resilience through MJ Melendez, who hit a three-run homer—his second of the season—narrowing the deficit and keeping the game within reach.

Despite the late rally, New York could not overcome Washington’s late fireworks and fell short in the final game of the series. The defeat highlights ongoing struggles for the Mets as they seek to regain footing within their division this season.