The New York Mets matched their worst losing streak in 24 years on Tuesday, dropping their 12th consecutive game after blowing a three-run lead against the Minnesota Twins. Superstitious fans now point to an April 9 visit from socialist Mayor Zohran Mamdani as the turning point for the team’s historic collapse.

Perfect Start Crumbles Into Devastating Loss

The Mets held a 3-0 lead after Francisco Lindor launched a three-run home run in the third inning. Starting pitcher Nolan McLean delivered five perfect innings without allowing a single hit. Despite the dominant start, the Mets surrendered five unanswered runs and failed to record a hit over the final five innings, losing 5-3 to Minnesota.

Manager Carlos Mendoza expressed frustration after the game. The loss tied the franchise’s previous 12-game skid from 2002. At 7-16, the Mets now share the worst record in Major League Baseball. No team in MLB history has recovered from a 12-game losing streak to reach the postseason, effectively eliminating New York from playoff contention before May.

The Curse Takes Hold

Fans traced the losing streak back to Mamdani’s April 9 appearance at Citi Field, when the mayor embraced team mascots Mr. and Mrs. Met. While the streak technically began April 7, the team has lost 11 of 12 games since the mayor’s visit. The superstition mirrors baseball’s infamous curses, with social media dubbing it the Curse of the Mambino.

Devon Williams admitted he had never experienced anything comparable during his career. The veteran said getting one victory would break the psychological barrier, but the team continues struggling to close out games. Star outfielder Juan Soto is expected to return from injury, offering hope the Mets can end their historic skid and salvage what remains of their season.

Postseason Dreams Evaporate

The Mets entered the season with expectations of contending for a division title. Instead, they face a mathematical reality that no previous team has overcome. Historical data shows teams enduring 12-game losing streaks never reach October baseball. With spring barely over, New York’s championship aspirations have effectively ended, leaving fans searching for explanations beyond simple baseball struggles.