Mets Stun Brewers with Late-Inning Heroics, Advance to NL Division Series

In a thrilling turn of events, Pete Alonso delivered a go-ahead, three-run homer off All-Star closer Devin Williams in the ninth inning, propelling the New York Mets to a 4-2 victory over the Milwaukee Brewers. This win not only clinched the NL Wild Card Series for the Mets but also marked a significant moment in their history, as they advanced to the playoffs for the first time since their 2015 National League pennant win. On the other hand, it was a heartbreaking loss for the Brewers, who were making their sixth playoff appearance in seven years.

Mets’ First Playoff Advancement Since 2015

The Mets’ comeback win in the decisive Game 3 marked a significant moment for the team. They secured their spot in the NL Division Series against the NL East champion Philadelphia Phillies. The best-of-five series begins Saturday in Philadelphia, setting the stage for the first postseason meeting between the two rivals. This series is crucial for both teams as they compete for a spot in the NLCS.

“This has been unreal. What a ride,” said Alonso, reflecting on the dramatic victory. “I’m just excited to help keep this team alive.”

According to OptaSTATS, Alonso’s three-run shot also made history, as he became the first major leaguer to hit a go-ahead homer in the ninth inning or later of a winner-take-all postseason game.

Brewers’ Heartbreak

The Brewers, making their sixth playoff appearance in seven years, appeared poised for victory. Jake Bauers and Sal Frelick hit back-to-back home runs to break a scoreless tie in the seventh inning, and rookie Tobias Myers combined with three relievers to shut out the Mets through eight innings, showing their resilience in the face of a tough opponent.

Manager Pat Murphy was emotional after the loss: “I love this team. I’ll never be able to duplicate 2024. It didn’t end the way we wanted it. It ended tragically.”

Alonso’s Ninth-Inning Heroics

Milwaukee’s two-time NL reliever of the year, Devin Williams, came in to close the game but faltered in the ninth. Francisco Lindor sparked the rally with a walk, followed by a single from Brandon Nimmo, setting the stage for Alonso. The Mets slugger, who had struggled for extra-base hits, launched an 86 mph changeup over the right-field wall.

“I’ve seen [Williams] pitch a ton. We were teammates in the WBC. He’s a tough AB,” Alonso remarked.

Alonso’s home run not only turned the game but potentially prolonged his career with the Mets, as he faces free agency after the World Series.

Mets’ Storybook Season Continues

The Mets, initially written off early in the season, have staged remarkable comebacks, including this latest one. Their 22-33 record in late May seemed like the beginning of the end, but the team rallied to become the best in baseball for the rest of the regular season, inspiring all who witnessed their journey.

“We were down and out for eight innings, and we just said, ‘You know what? We’ll keep shooting our shots until the end, and we’ll see what happens,'” Nimmo said, reflecting the team’s determination and never-say-die attitude that inspired their victory.

Brewers’ Last Stand

Frelick gave the Brewers a glimmer of hope in the bottom of the ninth with a single, but the Mets’ pitching sealed the victory. Edwin Díaz pitched 1 2/3 innings of scoreless relief for the win, while David Peterson earned his first major league save by closing out the game.

“This will motivate us for next year,” Frelick said, reflecting on the tough loss.

Up Next: Mets Face Phillies in Division Series

New York will face the Philadelphia Phillies in the NL Division Series. The Mets went 6-7 against the Phillies during the regular season, finishing six games behind them in the standings. This highly anticipated matchup will further fuel the rivalry as the teams face off for a spot in the NLCS.