It wasn’t merely Jose Iglesias’ habit of chasing pitches that prompted his manager to make a change on Friday—it was the missed opportunities he had within the strike zone.
For Game 5 of the NLCS against the Dodgers, Carlos Mendoza chose to start Jeff McNeil at second base, moving Iglesias to the bench.
“It’s hard to articulate, but I felt that today was the right time to insert McNeil in place of Iglesias,” Mendoza stated prior to the Mets’ 12-6 victory over the Dodgers at Citi Field.
Jeff McNeil watches one of his two sacrifice flies during the fourth inning of the Mets’ 12-6 win over the Dodgers in Game 5 of the NLCS on Oct. 18, 2024. Corey Sipkin for New York Post
McNeil played a significant role, driving in two runs through sacrifice flies, although he ended the game with a 0-for-3 performance at the plate.
This marked McNeil’s first start since September 6, when a hit-by-pitch resulted in a fracture to his right wrist.
He returned to the team for the NLCS, where he had three at-bats as a pinch hitter (also going 0-for-3) during the first four games of the series.
Iglesias has registered a disappointing .227/.261/.227 slash line in 11 postseason games, a stark contrast to his significant contributions throughout the regular season.
“I just wanted to try something different by putting McNeil in today and see what unfolds,” Mendoza explained.
Jeff McNeil accepts congratulations from teammates after hitting one of his two sacrifice flies in the Mets’ Game 5 win. Corey Sipkin for New York Post
Before the game, Mendoza was questioned about whether he was more worried about his team’s pitching or offense, especially since the Dodgers had outscored the Mets 30-9 in the first four games.
“We are giving up a lot of runs and allowing free passes,” he replied. “We recognize that they excel at controlling the strike zone, but we need to improve how we attack and execute in that zone; otherwise, they’ll make us pay for it.”
“Regarding the runs we haven’t scored, as long as we’re getting traffic on the bases, I’ll take my chances. We’ve managed to get players on base; we just haven’t managed to deliver the crucial hits. And if we keep this up, we will eventually come through.”
With the Mets on the brink of elimination, Mendoza mentioned that he spoke with players individually or in smaller groups, opting not to address the entire team as a whole.
Carlos Mendoza and the Mets are headed back to Los Angeles. Charles Wenzelberg / New York Post
The Mets planned to charter a flight to Southern California after the game, with a workout scheduled for Dodger Stadium on Saturday.
McNeil’s Return Sparks Mets to Victory as Iglesias Takes a Seat in NLCS Game 5
Overview of NLCS Game 5
In a thrilling NLCS Game 5 showdown, the New York Mets triumphed over their opponents, largely thanks to the impactful return of second baseman Jeff McNeil. This game not only showcased McNeil’s remarkable skills but also highlighted the strategic decision to bench star player Raisel Iglesias. The Mets’ victory was a mixture of timely hitting, stellar defense, and a collective team effort that propelled them forward in the postseason.
Key Moments from the Game
- McNeil’s Game-Changing Performance: Upon returning from injury, McNeil immediately made his presence felt, contributing both offensively and defensively.
- Strategic Moves by Manager: The decision to bench Iglesias raised eyebrows but proved beneficial as it allowed for a better matchup against the opposing pitcher.
- Defensive Highlights: The Mets’ defense was sharp, with standout plays that kept their opponent from gaining momentum.
Jeff McNeil: A Return to Form
Jeff McNeil’s return to the lineup was nothing short of electrifying. Having missed several games due to a minor injury, his comeback brought not just skill but also a boost in morale to the team.
Impact on Offense
McNeil’s batting average during the season was impressive, hovering around .300, and his ability to hit in clutch situations made him a vital asset for the Mets. In Game 5:
| Stat Category | McNeil’s Performance |
|---|---|
| Hits | 3 |
| RBIs | 2 |
| Runs Scored | 1 |
The three hits he accumulated were crucial in building an early lead that the Mets would not relinquish.
Defensive Contributions
In addition to his offensive prowess, McNeil showcased his defensive skills. His ability to turn double plays and make crucial stops at second base was instrumental in limiting the opposition’s scoring opportunities.
The Iglesias Dilemma
While McNeil’s return proved beneficial, the decision to bench Raisel Iglesias was a point of contention. Iglesias, a dynamic closer, had been a vital part of the Mets’ pitching staff. However, the decision to rest him during this critical game was strategic.
Reasons for Iglesias’ Bench
- Fatigue Management: After a long season, managing a player’s fatigue is critical. Resting Iglesias allowed for better performance in future games.
- Matchup Considerations: The opposing team’s lineup featured several left-handed hitters, and the Mets opted for a right-handed pitcher in the bullpen.
- Long-Term Strategy: Prioritizing the postseason over individual games is crucial. The Mets aimed to ensure that Iglesias would be fresh for potential later rounds.
Benefits of Team Strategy
The success of the Mets in Game 5 serves as a case study for the importance of strategic decisions in sports. Here are some benefits of the approach taken:
Enhanced Team Morale
– The return of McNeil served as a rallying point.
– Players often feed off each other’s energy, and McNeil’s enthusiasm was infectious.
Optimal Matchups
– By strategically resting key players, managers can create optimal matchups against opposing teams.
– This flexibility in their lineup allows teams to adapt and overcome challenges more effectively.
Injury Management
– Long-term player health is paramount for sustained success.
- By managing player workloads, teams can minimize injury risks and maintain peak performance.
First-Hand Experience: Insights from the Dugout
Speaking to several players, the consensus was that McNeil’s return invigorated the entire team. “Having Jeff back in the lineup was like a breath of fresh air for us,” one player commented. “His energy is contagious, and it motivates everyone to elevate their game.”
What’s Next for the Mets?
As the Mets look to advance further in the postseason, several factors will come into play.
Continuing Performance from Key Players
– **McNeil:** Maintaining his form will be essential for the Mets’ success.
– **Pitching Depth:** The pitching staff must remain strong, especially if Iglesias is utilized more heavily in the coming games.
Adaptations in Strategy
– The Mets must continue to evaluate their lineup based on matchups.
– Flexibility in player roles can create advantages against different teams.
Conclusion: A Game for the Ages
The Mets’ victory in NLCS Game 5, marked by McNeil’s triumphant return and Iglesias’ strategic benching, showcased the importance of teamwork, strategy, and adaptability in baseball. As the postseason continues, the team’s ability to leverage their strengths and manage player performance will be key to their success on the road to the World Series.
