Tank engine: Mets tee off on Connor Thomas in 14-3 loss - Battery Power

What the report says

Battery Power reported that the Atlanta Braves’ game against the New York Mets on July 28 turned from a competitive matchup into a lopsided 14-3 loss after the Braves went to reliever Connor Thomas in the sixth inning. The game was tied 3-3 through five innings, but the Mets broke it open against Thomas, who was left in to absorb most of the damage as Atlanta avoided using additional bullpen arms. Position player Jorge Mateo recorded the final out after New York’s lead had grown to 11 runs.

The night also marked Ronald Acuña Jr.’s return to Atlanta’s lineup after an injury absence. Acuña singled sharply in his first plate appearance and later finished 1-for-4 with two strikeouts. Ozzie Albies drove in Atlanta’s first run with an infield hit and later hit a two-run homer, accounting for much of the Braves’ offense. Battery Power noted that no Braves hitter other than Albies reached base more than once.

Starter Martin Perez allowed three runs over five innings, including a two-run homer by Francisco Lindor, but kept the game within reach despite rain affecting the middle innings. Zac Thornton started for the Mets, and New York’s lineup did most of its late scoring after Atlanta turned to Thomas.

The report framed the bullpen decision as a major turning point, while also noting that the Braves’ division lead remained 5.5 games after the Philadelphia Phillies lost. The series was scheduled to continue the next day, though weather was described as a possible concern.