PHILADELPHIA – The New York Mets showcased their resilience during crucial moments of playoff games by pulling off a dramatic win in Game 1 of the National League Division Series against the Philadelphia Phillies, prevailing 6-2 on Saturday at Citizens Bank Park.
After staging a ninth-inning comeback against the Milwaukee Brewers just two nights prior, the Mets struck again, sending nine batters to the plate and scoring five runs in the eighth inning against the Phillies’ relief pitchers Jeff Hoffman, Matt Strahm, and Orion Kerkering.
The Mets struggled offensively for the first seven innings, having been silenced by Phillies starting pitcher Zack Wheeler, who racked up nine strikeouts and allowed only one hit. However, everything changed after Wheeler exited the game. Mark Vientos delivered a game-tying RBI single, followed by an RBI single from Brandon Nimmo that put the Mets ahead. They added three more runs in the inning via a pair of sacrifice flies and a pinch-hit RBI single from J.D. Martinez.
The Mets’ bullpen played a key role in securing the victory. Kodai Senga took the mound for two innings, while David Peterson was kept in reserve for later appearances in the series. Reed Garrett pitched two flawless innings, and Phil Maton struck out two of the first three batters he faced before getting Alec Bohm to ground into a fielder’s choice for the final out of the eighth. Although Ryne Stanek gave up an RBI double to Johan Rojas, he managed to limit the damage and sealed the Mets’ victory.
The Mets’ offense ignited in the eighth inning after Wheeler’s departure, quickly gaining a 5-1 lead. Jeff Hoffman, who replaced Wheeler, saw Francisco Alvarez single followed by a walk for Francisco Lindor. Vientos then tied the game with his single, ultimately leading to a series of productive at-bats that resulted in additional runs.
Wheeler performed strongly for the Phillies, completing seven innings with a striking nine strikeouts, one hit, and four walks to keep his team competitive. Despite the solid outing, the Mets battled back once he exited the game.
Peterson’s pitching was notable as he entered following Senga’s two innings. The left-hander delivered three scoreless innings, navigating through three walks and one hit, closing his appearance by striking out Bryce Harper.
In earlier stages of the game, Senga initially struggled, allowing a leadoff home run to Kyle Schwarber. However, he quickly regained his composure, retiring six of the next seven batters. Meanwhile, the Mets found themselves limited by Wheeler’s performance, with their best scoring chance stifled by a double play in the fourth inning.
As the game progressed, emotions ran high, culminating in the Mets’ impressive come-from-behind victory as they prepare for the next encounter in the best-of-five series.