Mets Announcer Criticizes Braves for Leaving Pitcher Vulnerable

WHO:

Newsweek - Connor Thomas, Atlanta Braves pitcher

Fox News - Keith Hernandez, MLB legend and Mets commentator

WHAT:

Newsweek - Connor Thomas had a poor performance, saving the Braves bullpen but struggling during the game.

Fox News - Thomas gave up 10 hits, 11 earned runs, and three home runs while walking five batters in 2.2 innings.

Fox News - Thomas retired only eight of the 23 batters he faced and was replaced by a position player.

Fox News - The Mets defeated the Braves 14-3.

WHERE:

Newsweek - The game took place at Citi Field, New York.

Fox News - Thomas pitched against the Pittsburgh Pirates at PNC Park in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania on July 7, 2026.

WHEN:

Fox News - Thomas's second appearance of the season was on July 7, 2026.

WHY:

Fox News - The Braves had to keep Thomas in the game longer than usual to preserve other arms in the bullpen.

HOW:

Fox News - Thomas entered the game with the score tied at 3-3 before his performance led to a significant loss for the Braves.

(UPDATED July 28, 2026 18:27 UTC)

In a challenging outing, Braves pitcher Connor Thomas struggled significantly during a recent game against the Mets at Citi Field, allowing 11 earned runs and three home runs in just 2.2 innings. Thomas, who entered the game with a tied score of 3-3, faced 23 batters but managed to retire only eight before being replaced by a position player, ultimately contributing to the Braves' 14-3 defeat. This performance came on July 7, 2026, marking Thomas's second appearance of the season, where the Braves had to keep him in longer than usual to protect their bullpen.