The 2025 MLB regular season has arrived, and for the New York Mets, it was a day to forget as they fell to the Houston Astros 3-1 on Opening Day, March 27, 2025. In front of a sold-out crowd of 42,305 at Daikin Park, the Mets' much-anticipated season opener saw them struggle against Astros starter Framber Valdez, who blanked the Mets for seven innings.
Valdez was in complete control throughout the game, scattering four hits and allowing just two walks while striking out four. The Mets managed to put pressure on the Astros' bullpen but could not capitalize on their opportunities. The game’s only run for the Mets came late, when Francisco Lindor hit a sacrifice fly in the top of the ninth inning.
With the Mets trailing 3-0, they mounted a late rally in the ninth. After Luisangel Acuña drew a walk to load the bases with nobody out, the stage was set for Juan Soto, the Mets' star signing, to deliver. However, Soto struck out against Astros closer Josh Hader, ending the game with runners on first and third and two outs. This marked a disappointing start for the $765 million man, who finished the game 1-for-3 with two walks but could not deliver in the clutch.
The Mets had a chance to score earlier in the eighth inning when Bryan Abreu loaded the bases with three consecutive walks. However, Brandon Nimmo lined out to center field, stranding the potential go-ahead run. The Mets' struggles to convert opportunities were evident, as they ended the game with a Win Probability Added (WPA) of -40.2% for their hitters.
On the pitching side, Clay Holmes, making his first start since 2018, had a rocky outing. He lasted just 4⅔ innings, giving up three runs (two earned) on five hits and four walks while throwing 89 pitches. Holmes struggled with his command, and an error by Acuña allowed an unearned run to cross the plate in the third inning, further complicating his return to the starting role.
Despite the disappointing outcome, there were some bright spots for the Mets. Huascar Brazobán provided a strong relief performance, throwing two-and-a-third scoreless innings and helping to keep the game within reach.
As the Mets look to bounce back, they will send Tylor Megill to the mound for the second game of the series against the Astros, scheduled for March 28, 2025, at 8:10 PM EDT. The team will be eager to shake off the Opening Day blues and secure their first win of the season.
In the broader context of MLB's Opening Day, the Mets were one of 28 teams in action. The reigning champion Los Angeles Dodgers hosted the Detroit Tigers, while other notable games included the New York Yankees defeating the Milwaukee Brewers and the Baltimore Orioles overpowering the Toronto Blue Jays 12-2. The excitement of a new season is palpable, but for the Mets, it’s a matter of regrouping quickly to avoid a sluggish start.
Overall, the Mets' performance against the Astros highlighted both their potential and the areas needing improvement as they embark on what they hope will be a successful season. The pressure will be on as they continue to navigate through their early-season schedule, with fans eagerly watching to see how the team responds after a rocky start.
