UPDATE: The New York Mets achieved a crucial 9-7 victory against the Chicago Cubs on September 26, 2023, igniting their postseason ambitions. This come-from-behind win at Wrigley Field showcased the Mets’ determination as they strive for a playoff spot.
In a high-stakes game that felt like October, Mets manager Carlos Mendoza emphasized the urgency, stating, “Needed that one.” The Mets demonstrated their playoff mindset through significant plays, including a pivotal two-run homer from catcher Francisco Alvarez that capped a stunning rally from a 6-1 deficit—something they hadn’t accomplished in over two years.
The victory allowed the Mets to reclaim the 6th slot in the National League playoff race, overtaking the Cincinnati Reds, who lost to the Pittsburgh Pirates. The Reds currently hold the tiebreaker against New York, intensifying the pressure on the Mets as they aim for a postseason return.
Alvarez’s game-changing homer in the eighth inning electrified the Mets’ dugout, as he passionately celebrated with his teammates. “Let’s go!” he yelled, capturing the energy that the team desperately needed. Throughout the season, Alvarez has battled through hand injuries and a minor league stint but has emerged as a key player in this critical moment.
“That’s who he is, you know, and we feed off that,” Mendoza noted. “We need that spark. We need that energy.”
Despite a rocky start from Mets pitcher David Peterson, who lasted just 1.1 innings and gave up five runs, the bullpen stepped up dramatically. They limited the Cubs to just two runs over 7.2 innings, allowing closer Edwin Diaz to secure his third two-inning save of the season. Diaz dominated, striking out five of the six batters he faced in just 27 pitches.
As the Mets prepare for a critical rematch against the Cubs, Mendoza stressed the importance of focusing on “today.” Rookie pitcher Jonah Tong will take the mound against the Cubs’ Matthew Boyd, who has a stellar 13-game winning streak.
With only five games remaining in the regular season, the Mets are fully aware that every matchup is vital. “We’ve got to win every game possible,” Peterson stated. “They picked me up big time.” The urgency is palpable as the Mets transition into a postseason mentality despite the playoffs still being out of reach.
As the Cubs face their own challenges, having lost their last five games, the stakes couldn’t be higher for both teams. The battle for wildcard positions intensifies, and fans are eagerly awaiting the next chapter in this thrilling race.
The Mets are ready for the challenge, embodying a resolve that has become essential in their pursuit of postseason glory. “Just get outs,” Diaz said, underscoring the mindset needed in these crucial days ahead. The countdown to the playoffs is on, and the Mets are determined to seize this opportunity.
