File Photo/TheNYExtra.com
For an organization that prides itself on miracle moments, this 2024 team has certainly added to that miracle resume for the Mets.
To get into the playoffs, the Mets needed a ninth inning comeback fueled by a Lindor homer and last night it was time for Pete Alonso to take center stage. The Brewers hit back to back homers in the 7th inning to take a 2-0 lead but the Mets saved their rally for the final frame.
Lindor left off the inning with a wal and after a Brandon Nimmo hit, Pete Alonso stepped to the plate with 2 on and 1 out. The Met slugger had been struggling with his power bat and at times looked frustrated and depressed during the past few weeks. But on this trip to the plate he got in a hitter’s count and drove the ball over the right field fence to give the team a 3-2 lead. The Mets added an insurance on a Starling Marte RBI single and then Met manager Carlos Mendoza needed to make a tough decision. Who would be called on from the bullpen to nail down the win?
Edwin Diaz had already tossed 2 innings to keep the game close and he sat in the dugout during that long Met inning so he called on southpaw David Peterson who had been an unsug hero for the Mets all year. And he nailed it down getting a game ending double play ball on an amazing play from Francisco Lindor and this magical season will continue in the NLDS.
One thing this new payoff format has shown us in the paSt is that magical teams can ride momemtum into the World Series. Two years ago, the Phils did it and last year both Arizona and Texas did it. This year we have 3 teams that fit that magical description—The Tigers, The Royals and yes the Mets.
Speaking of the Phils, The Mets play them next in the NLDS starting tomorrow in Philly. This matchup is a tough one for the Mets as the Phils have a real balanced roster and great starting pitching. But so do the Mets who just seem to be resistant to feelig any pressure. They just play their game and never look nervous taking the cue from their manager who has been that way from day 1 this season.
Sometimes in sports, you just cannot explain why teams get red hot at playoff time and as I have been saying all year, this team reminds me of that 1973 Met team that just kept carving out miracle moments on the way to a NL pennant. OMG might be the 2024 version of You Gotta Believe.
