The New York Mets enter the All-Star break with a 40–57 record, their worst first half since 1995, according to reports. Multiple outlets note the Mets’ decline after a high-expectations start that included a substantial payroll. In Sunday’s game, Boston’s comeback win over New York featured a key defensive moment involving Mets shortstop Francisco Lindor, who misplays a potential game-ending double-play grounder and commits an error that helps set up the Red Sox’s late rally. The Mets lose again in a stretch that has continued throughout the first half, with one report stating New York drops its 16th game in 22 outings. The loss also leaves the Mets matching a recent season low of being 17 games under .500, reinforcing their struggles as they reach midseason. Overall, the coverage portrays the first half as a significant underperformance for the franchise relative to its expectations.