NEW YORK — Starling Marte's impact on the Mets lineup has been undeniable since his arrival in the offseason. After struggling with injuries last season, the seasoned outfielder has returned with vigor, playing a pivotal role in the team's recent winning streak. His performance on Saturday was no exception, as he launched a towering homer in the sixth inning to secure the Mets' sixth consecutive victory, a 6-4 triumph over the Dodgers at Chavez Ravine.
Facing a tense 2-2 deadlock in the sixth, Marte stepped up to the plate and wasted no time, connecting with Ryan Brasier's slider for a three-run blast that electrified the Mets' dugout. This marked Marte's fourth homer of the season, trailing only Pete Alonso's six. Reflecting on his approach, Marte emphasized simplicity: "Just see it and hit it.
Marte wasn't done yet. In the eighth inning, after contributing with an RBI single earlier, he capitalized on an error, stealing second base before scoring on Francisco Lindor's clutch RBI single. Teammate Brandon Nimmo expressed his delight at Marte's resurgence, highlighting the joy of witnessing Marte's true potential on display.
While the Mets faced constant pressure, their bullpen held firm, with Drew Smith, Jorge Lopez, Edwin Diaz, and Reed Garrett effectively shutting down the Dodgers' offense in the final innings. Diaz's performance was particularly nerve-wracking, as he loaded the bases in the eighth before striking out two key batters to escape the jam. Garrett sealed the deal with a dominant ninth inning to secure the save.
Despite a rocky start from Jose Butto, who battled through 4 ¹/₃ innings, allowing two earned runs, the Mets' resilient lineup and bullpen ultimately prevailed. Lindor's early RBI double set the tone, continuing his recent success from the left side of the plate, providing crucial offensive support.
For Butto, the victory and series win were paramount, emphasizing the team effort: "I didn’t have my best stuff, but I kept fighting. Our lineup of guys did a real good job and our bullpen too and we won the game and the series. That’s the most important thing.
Marte's impactful performance not only secured another win for the Mets but also highlighted his indispensable role in the team's success as they continue their quest for postseason glory.
NEW YORK — The Mets found themselves in tense situations throughout the game against the Dodgers, but their resilience prevailed as they clinched another hard-fought victory. After Francisco Lindor's pivotal double set the stage, DJ Stewart and Jeff McNeil loaded the bases with walks, only to see Harrison Bader retired to end the threat.
The inning began promisingly for the Mets, with Brandon Nimmo drawing a walk and swiftly stealing second base. However, the Dodgers managed to strike first, scoring once in the first inning and leaving the bases loaded. Freddie Freeman's timely RBI single off Jose Butto, following Mookie Betts' leadoff double and a walk to Shohei Ohtani, gave the Dodgers an early lead.
Butto managed to limit the damage, striking out James Outman and Andy Pages with the bases loaded. Starling Marte's clutch RBI single in the fourth inning reversed the tide, putting the Mets ahead 2-1 after Joey Wendle's leadoff single and stolen base. The departure of Gavin Stone after 3 ¹/₃ innings didn't halt the Mets' momentum, as they tagged him for both runs.
In the fifth inning, Ohtani's double and a hit by pitch from Butto put the Dodgers in scoring position, leading to a sacrifice fly from Max Muncy to tie the game 2-2. But reliever Michael Tonkin stepped up, striking out Outman to extinguish the threat.
The Mets seized the opportunity in the sixth inning, with Zack Short drawing a leadoff walk and Nimmo getting hit by a pitch, prompting Dodgers manager Dave Roberts to make a pitching change. Ryan Brasier entered the fray, but Marte wasted no time, launching a decisive three-run homer to extend the Mets' lead to 5-2.
Despite a late rally from the Dodgers, with Drew Smith facing a challenging situation in the bottom of the inning, the Mets' bullpen stood firm. Smith walked Betts but struck out Ohtani, only to concede a two-run single to Freeman, narrowing the Mets' lead to 5-4. However, Smith retired Teoscar Hernandez to escape the inning unscathed.
Edwin Diaz and Reed Garrett ensured the Mets maintained their lead, closing out the game with precision. Marte, reflecting on the team's recent success, emphasized the camaraderie and energy driving their performance. "It's that we're all supporting each other and playing really good baseball. That is what has stood out over the last couple of weeks," Marte remarked.
The Mets' collective effort and unwavering determination have propelled them to another crucial victory, further solidifying their position as contenders in the fiercely competitive league.
In conclusion, the Mets' victory over the Dodgers showcased their resilience, teamwork, and unwavering determination. Despite facing numerous challenges and tense moments, they stood firm, ultimately emerging triumphant thanks to key performances from players like Starling Marte and timely contributions from throughout the lineup. The camaraderie and energy within the team were evident, highlighting their unity and commitment to each other's success. As they continue their journey through the season, the Mets are poised to build upon this victory, propelled by their collective effort and the belief that together, they can overcome any obstacle that stands in their way.
