Mets Vs. Cardinals Final Score: Mets Lose 5-4

The New York Mets lost the opening game of their three-game series with the St. Louis Cardinals Monday, falling by a final score of 5-4.

St. Louis jumped out to an early 1-0 lead in the first inning and led 4-0 after four innings. They kept that lead going into the seventh inning, when the Mets began to rally. New York scored two runs in the seventh and two more in the eighth. The Cardinals knocked in an insurance run in the bottom of the seventh, however - which proved to be the winning score.

Collin McHugh (0-1, 3.27 ERA) made the start for the Mets, his second start in the Major Leagues this season. He allowed four runs over four innings and took the loss. Joe Kelly (5-6, 3.54 ERA) picked up the win for the Cardinals, tossing 6-2/3 innings while allowing two runs on five hits.

Kelly Shoppach and Daniel Murphy each hit a two-run home run for the Mets. It was Murphy's fifth home run of the season and the first since August 7. The series will continue tomorrow with first pitch scheduled for 8:15 p.m. ET.

For more on the Mets, please be sure to check out our blog Amazin' Avenue and SB Nation New York for all the latest news and updates.