New York Mets Complete Intense Travel Stint Amidst Competitive Series Against Philadelphia Phillies

The New York Mets have completed a grueling two-week stretch on the road, a period described by many within the team as both challenging and memorable. The voyage began in Atlanta where two games were postponed due to Hurricane Helene. The team traveled to Milwaukee for a weekend series, only to return to Atlanta for a doubleheader. The journey continued with a return to Milwaukee for the wildcard series, followed by a trip to Philadelphia for two additional postseason games. They have now returned to Citi Field in New York for a crucial third game of the National League Division Series, currently tied 1-1 against the Philadelphia Phillies.

“It feels like we’ve been traveling for an eternity,” remarked Mets manager Carlos Mendoza. The extensive journey accumulated approximately 3,565 miles (5,737 kilometers), featuring five critical victories, three exhilarating comebacks, and two champagne celebrations. “I’ve never experienced such an intense road trip,” added star shortstop Francisco Lindor.

When the Mets left New York City on September 22, their aim was clear: secure a wildcard position and endure long enough to host playoff games back in Queens. Despite a 5-6 record since their last home game, the team remains optimistic. “Incredible. It’s worth writing a book about. Maybe even make a movie,” Mendoza stated enthusiastically.

The pitching matchup for Tuesday’s game at Citi Field includes left-hander Sean Manea for the Mets against Aaron Nola, who has faced the Mets 28 times in his career, holding a 10-9 record and a 3.46 ERA. “We need to keep believing, and here we are. We just need to take it one inning at a time,” Manea expressed.

This will be Lindor’s first game at Citi Field in a month due to a back injury. The Mets star shared his excitement, saying, “I’m eager to play here. I believe our fans will bring a lot of energy and passion.” On the other side, Nola anticipates the game, noting, “Citi Field is a great stadium to pitch in. I’ve had both good and bad games here, but I always enjoy coming back.”

In the last game in Philadelphia, Phillies player Nick Castellanos drove in the winning run with a two-out single against Tylor Megill, bringing Bryce Harper home for a 7-6 victory over the Mets. Castellanos, who also hit a home run, said, “It was amazing, but the series is tied now. We’re heading to New York, and there’s still a lot of baseball left.”

The Phillies’ game was marked by home runs from Harper and Castellanos, which countered the Mets’ initial 3-0 lead. Mets pitcher Luis Severino commented on the pivotal home run allowed, “I lost my location and paid for it.”

Among the performances, Mark Vientos hit two two-run homers for the Mets, while Pete Alonso and Brandon Nimmo added solo shots. “What an incredible game,” Nimmo commented after the match.