Mets come back and clinch wild card: Alvarez drives key victory

The New York Mets demonstrated their playoff mentality with a crucial comeback at Wrigley Field on Tuesday. The victory, with a score of 9-7 over the Chicago Cubs, was a clear indication that the team is in postseason mode.

Playoffs Mentality

Mets manager Carlos Mendoza highlighted the importance of this victory, pointing out the key moments that led to the triumph. This mentality was reflected in every aspect of the game: from the starting pitcher’s performance to the closer’s performance, including catcher Francisco Álvarez’s crucial home run. For the Mets, although the playoffs haven’t officially started yet, the postseason spirit is already present.

The only thing I’m focused on is winning and getting back to the playoffs. Last year we went far and I loved the feeling.

Francisco Álvarez

The Mets’ victory allowed them to move up to sixth place in the National League standings, surpassing the Cincinnati Reds. Álvarez’s two-run homer in the eighth inning, against Chicago reliever Caleb Thielbar, was the highlight of the comeback, which began after being down 6-1. This type of reaction was something the Mets hadn’t achieved in more than two years. The impact of Álvarez’s hit was immediate, generating an explosion of joy in the Mets’ dugout. The catcher, upon reaching first base, turned to his teammates to celebrate. Mendoza highlighted the importance of the energy and spirit that Álvarez brings to the team. This home run was the tenth of the season for Álvarez, who has overcome injuries and a period in the minor leagues. If the Mets manage to reach October, all the effort will have been worth it.

The Cubs took the lead early, but David Peterson’s effort, who allowed five runs in just over an inning, forced the team to react. Peterson, who has been part of the rotation all season, will have to focus on what’s next. The Mets’ bullpen held the Cubs to two runs, allowing only one earned run in 7.2 innings. Edwin Díaz’s performance, with his third two-inning save of the season, was crucial. Díaz retired the six batters he faced, striking out five and throwing only 27 pitches. The playoff mentality demands that both he and the rest of the pitchers be ready to perform at their peak.

Just getting outs. I think everyone in the bullpen knows what they have to do. Tomorrow we have to have the same mentality.

Edwin Díaz

The loss was the fifth in a row for the Cubs, who now have a lead of only one and a half games over San Diego for fourth place in the National League. The next game will feature Jonah Tong, rookie pitcher for the Mets, facing Matthew Boyd, winner of 13 games for the Cubs. Tong will have to learn from the team’s experience. Mendoza emphasized the importance of focusing on the present to achieve victory.