Brandon Nimmo made a triumphant return to the lineup, leading the New York Mets to a 7-2 victory over the Washington Nationals. The Mets, riding high on their second consecutive extra-innings win, showcased remarkable resilience and depth throughout the game.
Nimmo, who had a harrowing experience on Sunday night when he fainted in his hotel room and sustained a forehead cut from the fall, displayed remarkable determination as he drove in Francisco Lindor with a crucial RBI single in the eighth inning, tying the game. Reflecting on his performance, Nimmo said, "Really enjoying the moments tonight ... getting the big hits, just soak them in because not every day's like that."
Decisive Contributions
The Mets' rally continued with José Iglesias delivering a critical double that pushed the team ahead. Not to be outdone, Pete Alonso added to the scoreboard with his 18th homer, while Francisco Lindor hit his 14th home run in the sixth inning, showcasing the offensive power that the Mets possess.
Standout Performances on the Mound
On the pitching front, DJ Herz delivered a stellar performance, striking out ten batters over 5 2/3 innings. This feat placed Herz in a unique category, joining Stephen Strasburg as one of the few pitchers since 1901 to notch two 10-strikeout, no-walk games in their first six major league starts. Herz, staying humble, stated, "I'm just going out there and pitching. I just want to get deep into games and put these guys in the best situation to win. It's cool to hear all that stuff that comes with it, but I'm just trying to go out there and do what's best for my team."
Jose Butto also contributed significantly by allowing just one hit over his two innings of relief work. Meanwhile, Sean Manaea delivered a strong outing, permitting just one earned run and striking out five over seven innings. Mets manager Carlos Mendoza commended Butto, saying, "We got two huge innings out of him when we needed it."
Historical Feat
The Mets' recent successes have placed them in elite company. They became only the fourth team to score five or more runs in an extra inning in back-to-back games, showcasing their ability to perform under pressure and deliver when it counts most.
Reflecting on his return and the game, Nimmo emphasized the importance of cherishing these moments. "When things like this happen, it's a fresh perspective on being able to play this game and being able to play it at this level on a daily basis," Nimmo shared. "When it's taken away from you briefly, you realize just how special it is, and you start to enjoy the little things a little bit more."
This victory not only highlights the Mets' depth and resilience but also underscores the importance of teamwork and determination. As the season progresses, performances like these will be crucial for the team's aspirations. For now, the Mets and their fans can revel in another hard-fought, well-earned victory.