Mets get one-hit in 1-0 loss to Nationals on Fourth of July to split series

The Mets lost for the second straight game, dropping the finale of a four-game set with the Washington Nationals, 1-0.

Here are the takeaways…

-The early start time appeared to impact hitters on both teams as neither side found a groove offensively in this one.

–Jose Quintana got the start for New York and held Washington in check for seven innings. The veteran lefty allowed just four hits (all singles) and walked three while striking out one. He threw 95 pitches (58 strikes) and lowered his season ERA to 4.22.

In his last four starts, the 35-year-old has pitched to a 1.16 ERA with a 1.07 WHIP.

-It was much appreciated length as the Mets’ bullpen has been overworked and underwhelming lately, especially since Edwin Diaz‘s 10-game suspension.

However, New York still couldn’t make it hold up as Adrian Houser gave up a game-winning solo home run to pinch-hitter Jesse Winker in the eighth inning. The home run was Winker’s sixth off Houser in 23 at-bats as the two saw each other frequently in the NL Central

-On the other side, Jake Irvin matched Quintana pitch for pitch and was even better, finishing with eight scoreless innings and allowing just one hit, one walk while striking out eight. He retired the last 17 batters he faced. Winker’s heroics also gave him a much deserved win (7-6) for his efforts.

–Jeff McNeil had the Mets’ only hit — a line drive right back up the middle — in the third inning.

-After taking the first two games in Washington, New York dropped the last two and is back to a game under .500 (42-43), currently two games back of the final Wild Card spot.

Game MVP: Jake Irvin

The right-hander pitched eight scoreless innings of one-hit ball and was able to get the win for his efforts thanks to honorable mention Jesse Winker’s pinch-hit home run in the bottom of the eighth.