Introduction: A Comeback for the Ages
In a game that will go down as one of the greatest comebacks in New York Mets playoff history, the Mets rallied from a 2-0 deficit in the ninth inning to defeat the Milwaukee Brewers 4-2, advancing to the National League Championship Series (NLCS). It was a game filled with tension, drama, and ultimately, an unforgettable display of resilience. Pete Alonso’s heroic go-ahead homer, followed by Francisco Lindor’s clutch defense, sealed the Mets' first playoff series victory since 2015.
With two outs in the ninth, the Mets had their backs against the wall, staring elimination in the face. But just like they’ve done all season, they fought back, sending shockwaves through the baseball world. This is the story of how a team that started the season 0-5 transformed into one of the most dangerous teams in the postseason.
Mets' Ninth-Inning Rally: Pete Alonso’s Heroics
The Mets’ comeback began with Francisco Lindor working an eight-pitch walk to lead off the ninth inning, setting the tone for what was about to unfold. As Lindor trotted to first base, the energy in the dugout shifted. What followed was one of the most dramatic at-bats in Mets playoff history.
Pete Alonso, in what could have been his final at-bat in a Mets uniform, stepped up to the plate with runners on the corners and two outs. Facing Brewers closer Devin Williams, Alonso worked the count to 3-1. On the next pitch, Williams threw another changeup—a pitch he had relied on all game—and Alonso made him pay, sending the ball soaring to the opposite field for a go-ahead three-run homer. The Mets now led 3-2, and the stadium erupted in disbelief.
"Pete came through in the clutch when we needed it the most," said Mets manager Buck Showalter. "That’s what great players do. They step up when the pressure’s highest."
Francisco Lindor: The MVP Candidate’s Key Role
Before Alonso’s home run, it was Francisco Lindor who set the stage with his crucial walk. Throughout the game, Lindor was the Mets' most consistent performer, collecting two of the team’s three hits before the ninth inning. But his impact extended beyond the batter’s box.
In the bottom of the ninth, with the Mets clinging to their 4-2 lead, Lindor delivered the final blow to the Brewers’ hopes. After a grounder to shortstop, Lindor calmly stepped on second base to turn the game-ending double play, securing the Mets' victory and their ticket to the NLCS. His calm demeanor and leadership were critical in the Mets’ ability to stay focused and finish the game strong.
“Francisco is the heart and soul of this team,” said Showalter. “His leadership in moments like these is why he’s an MVP candidate.”
Brewers Bullpen Breakdown: Devin Williams' Costly Mistake
For eight innings, the Brewers bullpen had been lights out, allowing just two hits and shutting out the Mets. But when Devin Williams took the mound in the ninth, things unraveled quickly. Williams had been nearly untouchable all season, but on this night, he made a critical mistake.
Williams threw a steady diet of changeups to Alonso, relying on the same pitch that had brought him success all year. However, on the 3-1 count, he left one changeup too high, and Alonso was ready. It was only the second home run Williams had allowed all year, and it couldn’t have come at a worse time.
“It’s baseball,” Williams said after the game. “I made a bad pitch, and Pete took advantage of it. It’s tough, but you move on.”
From Struggles to Redemption: The Mets' Regular Season Journey
The Mets’ season has been anything but smooth. They started the year with a disappointing 0-5 record and were 10-22 by late May. By midseason, the team was in turmoil, and many expected them to be sellers at the trade deadline. However, owner Steve Cohen made it clear that he believed in the team, and the Mets responded.
Since August 29th, the Mets have had the best record in baseball, going 22-10 down the stretch to secure a playoff spot. This late-season surge has been fueled by players like Alonso and Lindor, but also by the emergence of young stars like Francisco Álvarez and Brett Baty.
“This team has been through a lot,” said Cohen. “But they never gave up. They fought back, and now we’re in the NLCS.”
Owner Steve Cohen’s Influence: From Sellers to Contenders
One of the pivotal moments in the Mets’ turnaround came when owner Steve Cohen publicly stated that he would not allow the team to be sellers at the trade deadline. Cohen’s confidence in his players sent a message to the locker room: it was time to turn things around.
"Steve gave us a vote of confidence when we needed it most," said Lindor. "It motivated us to play harder and believe that we could still make the playoffs."
Cohen’s hands-on approach and willingness to invest in the team have been critical to the Mets’ resurgence. His leadership, both in the front office and in the clubhouse, has helped foster a winning culture that has carried the team into the postseason.
The Playoff Impact: How This Win Shapes the Mets' Postseason
The Mets' victory over the Brewers has positioned them as serious contenders in the National League. They now face the Philadelphia Phillies in the NLCS, a team that has been their rival all season. The Mets went 6-7 against the Phillies during the regular season, and the upcoming series is expected to be a hard-fought battle.
With momentum on their side, the Mets believe they can continue their winning ways. "This team has something special," said Alonso. "We’ve been through a lot, but we’ve got what it takes to go all the way."
Facing the Phillies in the NLCS: What to Expect
The Mets' next challenge comes in the form of the Philadelphia Phillies, a team that boasts a powerful lineup and a deep pitching staff. The Mets will need their top performers—Alonso, Lindor, and their pitching staff—to be at their best if they want to advance to the World Series.
"We’ve played the Phillies tough all season, and we know what to expect," said Showalter. "It’s going to be a battle, but we’re ready for it."
Conclusion: A Team That Believes
The Mets’ journey from a struggling regular season to an exhilarating postseason run is a testament to their resilience and belief in one another. Led by veterans like Alonso and Lindor, and backed by the confidence of their owner Steve Cohen, this team has proven that they can never be counted out.
As they prepare for the NLCS, the Mets are riding high on momentum. Whether they can carry that momentum all the way to the World Series remains to be seen, but one thing is certain: this is a team that believes in itself, and that belief has already carried them further than many expected.
FAQs
- What was the final score of the Mets vs. Brewers game? The Mets won 4-2 after a dramatic ninth-inning rally.
- Who hit the game-winning home run? Pete Alonso hit a three-run homer to give the Mets the lead in the ninth inning.
- Who will the Mets face next? The Mets will face the Philadelphia Phillies in the NLCS.
- How did Francisco Lindor contribute to the win? Lindor worked a key walk in the ninth inning and turned the game-ending double play.
