Brandon Nimmo's Return Sparks Mets to Victory
Brandon Nimmo's return to the lineup couldn't have come at a better time for the New York Mets. After a brief scare where he fainted in his hotel room on Sunday night, causing a cut on his forehead, Nimmo was back on the field and pivotal in the Mets' 7-2 victory over the Washington Nationals.
The game marked the Mets' second consecutive extra-innings win, placing them in an elite group by becoming only the fourth team to score five or more runs in an extra inning in back-to-back games. Nimmo's contribution was nothing short of heroic. In the eighth inning, he delivered a crucial RBI single that tied the game, driving in Francisco Lindor and setting the stage for the Mets' eventual triumph.
"Really enjoying the moments tonight ... getting the big hits, just soak them in because not every day's like that," Nimmo reflected after the game. "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. 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."
Indeed, the little things added up in a big way for the Mets. José Iglesias delivered a critical double that pushed the Mets ahead, while Pete Alonso and Francisco Lindor contributed significant power in the sixth inning with Alonso hitting his 18th homer and Lindor adding his 14th of the season.
The Mets' pitching staff also played a crucial role in the victory. DJ Herz had a standout performance, striking out ten batters over 5 2/3 innings. Herz's achievement placed him in rare company, joining Stephen Strasburg as one of the few pitchers since 1901 to achieve two 10-strikeout, no-walk games in their first six major league starts.
"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," Herz said, displaying the focus and humility that have quickly endeared him to Mets fans.
The bullpen did not disappoint either. Jose Butto provided two crucial innings of relief, allowing just one hit, while Sean Manaea was excellent, allowing just one earned run and striking out five in seven innings. The combined pitching efforts kept the Nationals' offense at bay, giving the Mets' hitters the chance to pull ahead and secure the win.
Assistant coach Carlos Mendoza had high praise for Butto's performance, stating, "We got two huge innings out of him when we needed it."
This victory underscores the resilience and depth of the Mets' roster. With Nimmo back in action and performing at a high level, the team looks poised to continue their winning ways. The blend of timely hitting, powerful home runs, and stellar pitching performances has rejuvenated the Mets' season, bringing newfound excitement to their fan base.