Mets Riding a Seven-Game Streak Into Series With Nationals: Five Key Storylines to Watch

The New York Mets are currently on a hot streak, winning seven consecutive games and completing a flawless home stand that included a sweep of division rivals, the Philadelphia Phillies. As they head into a fresh series against the Washington Nationals, there’s plenty of excitement — and a few critical developments — for fans to follow.

Here are the top five things to watch this weekend as the Mets take on the Nationals:

1. Return of Key Players: Jeff McNeil and Francisco Álvarez

The Mets are set to welcome back two crucial pieces of their lineup: Jeff McNeil and Francisco Álvarez. Both are expected to rejoin the team on Friday. It will be the first time this season that the Mets unveil their full intended starting lineup. While fans are eager to see these impact players back on the field, questions remain about how much playing time each will receive as they ease back into game shape.

Álvarez, considered a potential 30-home run threat, may initially share catching duties with Luis Torrens, who has impressed in recent weeks. A 70-30 split favoring Álvarez is expected, depending on performance.

Meanwhile, McNeil brings much-needed versatility, with the ability to play second base, left field, and even center field — a valuable asset with José Siri on the injured list. McNeil and Alvarez return sent Baty and Senger to AAA for the time being.

2. James Wood Emerging as a Star for Washington

Nationals outfielder James Wood is quickly establishing himself as one of the most exciting young players in baseball. Acquired in the Juan Soto trade, Wood is slashing .253/.350/.552 with seven home runs, and currently holds an OPS north of .900. He ranks second in homers in the National League and has settled into the leadoff spot in the Nationals’ order.

Neutralizing Wood will be a top priority for Mets pitchers, especially when he's batting with runners on base. His ability to change the game with one swing could be a deciding factor in the series.

3. A Tale of Two Bullpens

The contrast between these teams' bullpens could be a key storyline throughout the weekend. The Mets boast one of the best relief corps in the league, sporting a 2.35 ERA. Ryan Stanek has led the way with a microscopic 0.96 ERA, while A.J. Minter has allowed just two earned runs across 11 appearances. Reed Garrett has yet to allow a run in 10 innings pitched.

On the flip side, the Nationals bullpen has struggled mightily, carrying the worst ERA in baseball at 6.96. Washington relievers have given up 69 runs and walked 51 hitters — a concerning trend as they prepare to face a red-hot Mets lineup that thrives against shaky pitching.

4. Nationals’ Quietly Developing Starting Rotation

While their bullpen falters, the Nationals’ rotation is showing signs of promise. Though MacKenzie Gore won’t face the Mets this series, the team will likely see Mitchell Parker and Jake Irvin on the mound. Parker has been a revelation, posting a 1.39 ERA across five starts and recently tossing eight innings of one-hit baseball against the Orioles. Irvin, meanwhile, has maintained a solid 3.68 ERA and could be entering a crucial stretch of his young career.

These two arms could provide Washington with the stability needed to keep games close — especially if the bullpen can hold its own.

5. Can the Mets Extend Their Streak to 10?

With momentum on their side and key players returning, the Mets have a real shot at extending their win streak. A sweep of the Nationals would give New York 10 straight victories, placing them just one shy of the franchise record of 11 — achieved during the iconic seasons of 1969, 1986, and 2015.

The Nationals are no pushover, particularly with rising stars like Wood and Parker. But this is a series the Mets could — and arguably should — win decisively. Fans will be watching closely to see if the team can maintain its energy and push toward a historic milestone.

As always, the storyline extends beyond wins and losses. This weekend will offer insights into roster decisions, player development, and how the Mets stack up against rising talent in a competitive National League East.