Sat Jun 21 01:50:00 UTC 2025: Okay, here’s a news article based on the provided text:
**Braves Sweep Mets, Extend Losing Streak as NL East Tightens**
**ATLANTA** – The Atlanta Braves completed a dominant series sweep of the New York Mets on Thursday night, defeating them 7-1 and extending the Mets’ season-worst losing streak to six games. A three-run double by Matt Olson and a strong outing from Spencer Strider propelled the Braves to victory.
Strider (2-5) pitched six innings, allowing just one run on five hits while striking out eight. Olson also had a stellar night at the plate, adding another double and two walks to his three-run double.
The Mets struggled mightily, issuing a total of nine walks. Starter Clay Holmes (7-4) had a particularly difficult time, walking a career-high six batters in 4 2/3 innings. Relief pitcher Huascar Brazobán added to the woes, walking three and giving up four runs.
The loss, coupled with the Philadelphia Phillies’ win over the Miami Marlins, leaves the Mets and Phillies tied for first place in the NL East. The Braves, meanwhile, have been surging, winning seven of their last nine games. They now sit 10 games behind the division leaders, a significant improvement from being 15 games out just a week ago.
A key moment in the game came in the fifth inning, when Holmes encountered an issue with his PitchCom device with the bases loaded. The delay seemed to disrupt his rhythm, and upon receiving a replacement, he walked Drake Baldwin to force in a run, giving the Braves a 2-1 lead.
Despite the Mets’ struggles, Juan Soto provided a bright spot, recording his 1,000th career hit in the first inning.
Looking ahead, the Mets will recall right-hander Blade Tidwell from Triple-A Syracuse to start Friday night against the Phillies in what will be a crucial series to determine who will lead the division. The Braves are planning to call up 20-year-old rookie Didier Fuentes to make his major league debut in a start against Miami.
First Piper 