The New York Mets pulled off a dramatic comeback in Game 1 of the National League Division Series (NLDS) against the Philadelphia Phillies, using a five-run eighth inning to secure a 6-4 victory on Thursday night. The Mets’ rally, ignited by clutch hitting and aggressive base running, turned a tense game into a stunning win as they grabbed an early lead in the best-of-five series.
Trailing 4-1 heading into the bottom of the eighth, the Mets found themselves up against Phillies ace reliever José Alvarado. Francisco Lindor started the inning with a leadoff double, sparking life in a subdued Citi Field crowd. Pete Alonso followed with a single to put runners on the corners. After a sacrifice fly from Jeff McNeil brought in Lindor, the momentum shifted. The Mets’ offense erupted, with Brandon Nimmo tying the game on a sharp single to left, driving in Alonso.
The decisive blow came from veteran catcher Francisco Álvarez, who laced a two-out, two-run double down the right-field line, scoring two more runs and giving the Mets a 6-4 lead. Mets closer Edwin Díaz sealed the victory in the ninth, retiring the side in order and sending the Mets faithful into a frenzy.
Phillies’ starter Aaron Nola had pitched six strong innings, allowing just one run while striking out eight, but the bullpen couldn’t hold the lead late in the game. The Phillies’ offense, led by a two-run homer from Bryce Harper, had built what seemed like a comfortable lead before the Mets’ eighth-inning explosion.
