New York Mets' first baseman Pete Alonso delivered a memorable performance in the decisive third game of the NL Wild Card Series against the Milwaukee Brewers. Alonso, who had been struggling, came through in the ninth inning with a three-run homer off Brewers' closer Devin Williams, propelling the Mets to a 4-2 victory.
Alonso's heroic homer made him the first player in MLB history to hit a go-ahead home run when his team was trailing in the ninth inning or later of a winner-take-all postseason game. The slugger expressed his elation, describing the moment as something he had imagined as a child playing in the backyard.
The Mets' victory secured their spot in the best-of-five Division Series against the NL East champion Philadelphia Phillies, set to begin on Saturday in Philadelphia.
Alonso's game-changing homer came after the Brewers had taken a 2-0 lead in the seventh inning. Despite a defensive miscue earlier in the game, Alonso's resilience and focus shone through as he delivered when it mattered most.
Teammates praised Alonso's performance, highlighting his status as one of the premier home run hitters in Mets history. The 29-year-old's clutch hit ended a dry spell and provided a much-needed spark for the team.
Alonso's homer not only turned the game around but also potentially extended his time with the Mets, as he is a pending free agent. The emotional victory and the significance of the moment were evident as Alonso celebrated his game-winning hit.
As the Mets celebrated in the locker room post-game, Alonso was presented with a pumpkin, which he dubbed his 'playoff pumpkin,' symbolizing the spirit of playoff baseball and the team's continued journey in the postseason.
Thanks to Alonso's heroics, the Mets now look ahead to the Division Series with renewed confidence and momentum, aiming to continue their postseason run.
Source: AP MLB
