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NEW YORK — Pete Alonso hit yet another home run off Aaron Nola, while Sean Manaea pitched a two-hit shutout into the eighth inning as the New York Mets defeated the Philadelphia Phillies 7-2 on Tuesday in Game 3 of their NL Division Series.
Jesse Winker also homered, and Starling Marte contributed a crucial two-run single, aiding the wild-card Mets, who played their first home game in 16 days, to take a 2-1 lead in the best-of-five series.
Game 4 is set for Wednesday, with All-Star Ranger Suárez slated to start for Philadelphia against fellow left-hander Jose Quintana. A win will propel New York into the National League Championship Series to face either the Los Angeles Dodgers or San Diego Padres.
The Mets have yet to celebrate a clinching victory at Citi Field, which has been open since 2009.
“It would be fantastic to get it done, but we’ve got to remain focused,” said Alonso.
After reaching the 2022 World Series and the seventh game of last year’s NLCS, the NL East champion Phillies find themselves on the verge of an early playoff exit at the hands of their rivals, the Mets.
“It’s true that I talked to the team,” manager Rob Thomson stated. “Essentially, it’s quite simple: we come in tomorrow, and I told them they are the most resilient group I’ve ever been around. They embody toughness, fighting, and playing together. That’s our focus, just one game at a time.”
Manaea was taken out after allowing an infield single to start the eighth. The towering left-hander, who emerged as New York’s ace in the second half of the season, received warm pats from teammates and a standing ovation from the towel-waving sellout crowd of 44,093 as he walked off the mound.
Thanks to a stellar throw from Tyrone Taylor in center field, Manaea secured his first playoff win after entering with an 0-3 record and a 10.66 ERA in his postseason career. He struck out six and issued two walks.
“He really wanted this moment,” remarked teammate Francisco Lindor. ”He gave everything he had.”
Holding a 2-0 lead, Manaea navigated through significant trouble in the sixth. After giving up consecutive walks to kick off the inning, he had a mound visit from pitching coach Jeremy Hefner and managed to strike out star slugger Bryce Harper with three off-speed pitches.
“I just went right after him,” said Manaea.
Nick Castellanos then hit into an inning-ending double play, with the Mets’ middle infielders doubling off Kyle Schwarber at second. A fired-up Manaea yelled, “Let’s go!” as he hopped off the mound.
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Alonso launched Nola’s first pitch of the second inning
Mets Triumph Over Phillies 7-2 in NLDS Game 3, Take 2-1 Series Lead
Game Overview
In a thrilling clash at Citi Field, the New York Mets emerged victorious over the Philadelphia Phillies with a score of 7-2 in Game 3 of the National League Division Series (NLDS). This win not only marked a significant moment in the postseason but also gave the Mets a crucial 2-1 lead in the best-of-five series. The triumph showcased the Mets’ prowess on both offense and defense, setting the stage for a potential series clinching in the upcoming matches.
Key Players in the Victory
Several players stood out during this pivotal game, each contributing to the Mets’ success:
- Sean Manaea: The Mets’ starting pitcher delivered an impressive performance, recording seven innings while allowing just one run and three hits. This outing marked one of the best in Mets postseason history, emphasizing his critical role in the team’s playoff journey.
- Offensive Contributors: The Mets’ lineup was highlighted by timely hitting from key players, ensuring a steady flow of runs throughout the game. Their ability to capitalize on scoring opportunities was evident, resulting in a decisive victory.
The Game Breakdown
The game unfolded with strategic plays and pivotal moments that defined the outcome:
Inning-by-Inning Summary
| Inning | Mets Runs | Phillies Runs |
|---|---|---|
| 1st | 2 | 0 |
| 2nd | 1 | 0 |
| 3rd | 0 | 1 |
| 4th | 1 | 0 |
| 5th | 3 | 1 |
| 6th | 0 | 0 |
| 7th | 0 | 0 |
| 8th | 0 | 0 |
| 9th | 1 | 0 |
Mets’ Offensive Strategy
The Mets executed a well-planned offensive strategy that proved effective against the Phillies’ pitching staff. Here are some highlights of their approach:
- Aggressive Baserunning: The Mets made smart decisions on the base paths, taking advantage of defensive lapses by the Phillies.
- Patient Hitting: Mets batters displayed patience at the plate, leading to walks and favorable counts that allowed them to produce runs.
- Clutch Performances: Several key hits during critical moments shifted the momentum firmly in the Mets’ favor, particularly during high-pressure situations.
Defensive Highlights
While the offense shone brightly, the Mets’ defense played a crucial role in securing the win. Notable defensive plays included:
- Manaea’s Pitching: The right-hander’s ability to control the game with his pitches limited the Phillies’ scoring opportunities.
- Fielding Excellence: The Mets’ infield made several highlight-reel plays, showcasing their skill and teamwork in high-stakes moments.
Impact on the Series
The Mets’ victory in Game 3 significantly influences the trajectory of this NLDS matchup:
- Series Momentum: With a 2-1 lead, the Mets have the momentum and confidence required to push for a series win. Their performance indicates a strong potential to close out the series in the next game.
- Psychological Advantage: Defeating a rival like the Phillies in such a definitive manner can have lasting effects on confidence levels and game strategies moving forward.
- Next Steps: The Mets will look to capitalize on this victory in the upcoming games, focusing on maintaining their high level of play to secure advancement in the postseason.
What This Means for Fans
For Mets fans, this victory not only represents a step closer to postseason glory but also showcases the team’s determination and skill. Engaging with the team’s journey is crucial:
- Support Your Team: Fans are encouraged to attend upcoming games, either at the stadium or through viewing parties, to show their support.
- Follow the Action: Stay updated through social media and sports news outlets to keep track of the Mets’ journey through the playoffs.
Conclusion
The New York Mets’ 7-2 victory over the Philadelphia Phillies in Game 3 of the NLDS was a testament to their skill, strategy, and determination. With a 2-1 series lead, the Mets are poised to make a deep playoff run. Fans and analysts alike will be watching closely as this exciting series unfolds.
