In an impressive display of skill and teamwork, Brandon Nimmo's bases-loaded double sparked a crucial five-run fifth inning, leading the New York Mets to a resounding 7-0 victory over the Washington Nationals, completing a decisive three-game sweep.
Six Blank Entries
The game, held at Citi Field, saw David Peterson deliver a stellar performance on the mound, pitching six shutout innings and contributing significantly to the Mets' win, which now firmly positions the team in the playoff race.
The Mets offense, which had been dormant until J.D. Martinez's double in the fourth inning, came alive in the fifth. Consecutive tickets to Jeff McNeil and Francisco Lindor loaded the bases, setting the stage for Brandon Nimmo's crucial hit.
Nimmo's double, launched against a 96.6 mph fastball from Washington starter MacKenzie Gore, landed perfectly between left fielder James Wood and center fielder Lane Thomas. This hit not only cleared the bases, but also ignited the Mets offense in that inning.
J.D. Martinez and Pete Alonso each contributed run-scoring singles, further solidifying the Mets' offensive power and helping the team move two games above .500 for the first time since April 24.
In the eighth inning, the offensive momentum continued with RBI singles by Mark Vientos and Harrison Bader, raising New York's record to 47-45. This victory moved the Mets one percentage point (.511) ahead of San Diego for the third National League wild card spot, highlighting the team's significant progress.
Brandon Nimmo, who has been a standout player, praised his team, noting the overall team effort and expressing pride in the consistent performances of his teammates.
Nimmo, with 30 RBIs, the best mark in the majors since June 14 and a .348 batting average during that period, emphasized the importance of being relentless and continuing to press until runs can be scored.
His head-first slide on Martinez's double off Dylan Floro, which extended the Mets' lead to 5-0, exemplified his aggressive and determined approach.
Peterson Was Essential
David Peterson's performance was another highlight of the game. With a 4-0 record, Peterson allowed just four hits, struck out five and gave up three tickets in six innings, combining with four relievers to secure New York's first shutout of the season.
This victory was part of a larger trend, marking the Mets' seventh sweep of the season and improving their record to 25-12 since a doubleheader sweep by the Dodgers on May 29. This particular loss had prompted a players-only meeting, after which the team showed remarkable resiliency and improved performance.
Mets manager Carlos Mendoza stressed the importance of focusing on day-to-day performance rather than standings, highlighting the team's resolve after a challenging month of May.
His comments reflect a disciplined, forward-looking approach critical to maintaining momentum throughout the grueling season of the MLB.
On the Nationals' side, the struggles continued. MacKenzie Gore, despite a strong start, ultimately allowed four runs and three hits in 4 2/3 innings. The Nationals suffered their fifth straight loss and 16th defeat in 23 games, falling to a negative 10-game record under .500 and being blanked for the 10th time this season.
Manager Dave Martinez noted the missed opportunities, as Washington left 13 runners on base and had a 1-for-12 performance with runners in scoring position, highlighting the team's continued struggles to capitalize on scoring opportunities.
In the bullpen, Phil Maton, newly acquired from Tampa Bay, made an impressive debut for the Mets. Maton struck out two in a 1-2-3 seventh inning, becoming the 30th pitcher to appear for the Mets this season. This type of depth in the bullpen will be crucial for the Mets as they navigate the rest of the season.
Sweep complete 🧹 #MetsWin #LGM pic.twitter.com/tcaSfISISrRz
- New York Mets (@Mets) July 11, 2024
Injuries and Upcoming Games
Injury updates also played a role in the Mets' narrative. Right-handed pitcher Reed Garrett, dealing with elbow inflammation, will be out of action for two to four weeks, but doctors have confirmed there is no ligament damage, much to Garrett's relief.
Meanwhile, right-handed pitcher Kodai Senga is scheduled to throw 60 to 65 pitches in his upcoming rehab opening with Triple-A Syracuse, an encouraging sign for his return.
The Nationals will face the Milwaukee Brewers in their next game, with Jackson Rutledge (0-0, 9.00 ERA) starting against Milwaukee's Freddy Peralta (6-4, 3.95 ERA) in the opener of a three-game series.
The Mets, aiming to keep their momentum going, will start left-handed pitcher Sean Manaea (5-3, 3.43 ERA) against Tanner Gordon (0-1, 7.11 ERA) of the Colorado Rockies when they begin their own three-game series on Friday.
This strategic matchup will be critical as the Mets strive to maintain their playoff position and continue their upward trajectory in the standings.
