FLUSHING — The high of Ronny Mauricio’s Opening Day walk-off evaporated quickly in the brisk Tuesday afternoon air at Citi Field. On Wednesday, the New York Mets were handed a stark “Reality Check” in the form of a 7–2 loss to the Arizona Diamondbacks, a game that highlighted the current fragility of the back end of the Mets’ rotation.
Never Miss a Word Again
These discrete, rechargeable hearing aids deliver crystal-clear sound and advanced noise cancellation. Perfect for watching the news, busy restaurants, or family gatherings.
Secure transaction via Amazon.com
David Peterson, who entered the 2026 season with the expectation of being a stabilizing force, looked anything but steady. The Diamondbacks’ hitters, led by a historic performance from Corbin Carroll, jumped on Peterson from the first pitch. By the time the second inning drew to a close, Peterson had surrendered five runs on six hits, including a pair of doubles that rattled around the cold gaps of Citi Field. The boos that accompanied Peterson’s exit from the mound in the second inning were a sharp contrast to the cheers heard 24 hours prior.
“I just didn’t have the command of the sinker early,” Peterson said in a somber post-game clubhouse. “Against a lineup like Arizona, if you’re living in the middle of the plate with 91-92 [mph], they’re going to make you pay. I put the team in a hole too early, and that’s on me.”
Never Miss a Word Again
These discrete, rechargeable hearing aids deliver crystal-clear sound and advanced noise cancellation. Perfect for watching the news, busy restaurants, or family gatherings.
Secure transaction via Amazon.com
Peterson’s struggle is becoming an early-season trend. Through three starts, his ERA has ballooned to 6.14, and over his last 11 starts dating back to late 2025, that number sits at a staggering 8.05. While manager Carlos Mendoza offered a vote of confidence after the game—describing Peterson as “our guy” who just needs mechanical adjustments—the patience of the Queens faithful is wearing thin. With the rest of the rotation, including Nolan McLean and Freddy Peralta, performing at an elite level, Peterson currently looks like the weak link in an otherwise formidable chain.
The Mets’ offense, perhaps still recovering from the emotional peak of the home opener, was unable to bail out their starter. Arizona’s Ryne Nelson kept the bats quiet for six innings, allowing only two runs on a late rally that proved to be too little, too late. The loss snapped a four-game winning streak and reminded the organization that while they have the “Super-Team” talent, the margin for error remains razor-thin when the starting pitching falters.