Joey Wentz has rare poor outing as Braves lose to Mets

Cox participated in the pregame parade, waving to fans from a convertible, and received a standing ovation during the pregame ceremony.

“That was awesome,” said Braves manager Brian Snitker, a Cox mentee. “I’m sure the guys loved seeing him. That made my day.”

The current Braves didn’t extend the excitement. They were facing a five-run deficit through just four innings. Joey Wentz, who’d been such a pleasant surprise, was shelled. He surrendered six runs on nine hits while recording 10 outs. Wentz had a 2.60 ERA in seven games with the team prior to Friday. He’d allowed one or no runs in five of those appearances.

Journeyman Erick Fedde covered the next 4⅓ innings, allowing six runs on nine hits. To top it off, rain started pouring during a three-run Mets eighth. The Braves have had plenty of forgettable performances in 2025. This was the latest.

There will be intrigue in how Wentz rebounds. He’s pitched so well that he’d seem a candidate to be part of the opening-day roster next year, whether a starter or reliever capable of covering bulk innings.

Search for positives, and one might pinpoint infielder Nacho Alvarez Jr. Snitker complimented the rookie’s progression before the game, and Alvarez followed with two hits, including a double. He has a clear runway to make an impression with third baseman Austin Riley, who is out for the season. Alvarez could be a candidate for a utility role next spring.

The Braves and Mets continue their series Saturday. New Braves starter Cal Quantrill (4-10, 5.50) will face Mets righty Clay Holmes (10-6, 3.64).