UPDATE: In a nail-biting comeback, the New York Mets triumphed over the Chicago Cubs with a 9-7 victory on September 26, 2023, at Wrigley Field, reclaiming control of the last wild card spot in the National League.
Just hours ago, this timely win ignited the Mets’ postseason aspirations as they rally from a daunting 6-1 deficit, a feat they hadn’t accomplished in over two years. Mets manager Carlos Mendoza expressed relief, stating, “Needed that one,” underscoring the urgency of the moment.
The Mets showcased their playoff mentality with a blend of strategy and emotion—an early hook for starter David Peterson, a stellar performance from the bullpen, and a game-changing homer from catcher Francisco Alvarez.
Alvarez’s pivotal two-run homer in the eighth inning sent the Mets’ dugout into a frenzy, marking his 10th home run of the season. The crowd erupted as he rounded the bases, shouting, “Let’s go!” in a moment of sheer exhilaration. “That’s who he is, you know, and we feed off that,” Mendoza said, highlighting the energy Alvarez brings to the team.
The Mets’ victory was further sweetened by the Cincinnati Reds’ loss to the Pittsburgh Pirates, allowing New York to reclaim the sixth position in the playoff race. With just five games left in the regular season, every win is critical for postseason hopes.
Despite a rough outing from Peterson, who allowed five runs in just 1 1/3 innings, the Mets’ bullpen stepped up, limiting the Cubs to only two runs over the remaining 7 2/3 innings. Closer Edwin Diaz sealed the game with a dominant two-inning save, striking out five batters and throwing only 27 pitches.
“Just get outs,” said Diaz, emphasizing the need for focus in the coming days. “Tomorrow, we’ve got to have the same mentality,” he added, setting the tone for the crucial rematch.
As the Mets prepare for a return match against the Cubs on Wednesday, rookie Jonah Tong is set to take the mound against Chicago’s Matthew Boyd, who boasts a 13-game winning streak. The stakes are high, and Tong will look to build on the momentum created by his teammates.
This thrilling victory not only boosts the Mets’ standings but also ignites hope among fans who remember the team’s deep playoff run last year. Alvarez sums it up perfectly: “Last year, we went to the playoffs, and I just love the way that felt.” For the Mets, every game from here on out is a step toward reclaiming that feeling.
As the season winds down, the urgency is palpable. Fans and players alike know the significance of each moment. “I can’t be thinking about tomorrow,” Mendoza said, echoing the sentiment that today is what matters most. With the pressure on, the Mets are fully in postseason mode, ready to fight for their place in October.