Francisco Lindor didn’t start the game due to feeling unwell with flu-like symptoms, but he made a strong impact off the bench for the New York Mets. He hit two doubles that each brought in two runs, helping the Mets to a 7-6 victory over the Chicago Cubs in 11 innings.
Starling Marte, the Mets’ right fielder, also played a crucial role with two impressive throws in extra innings that prevented Cubs runners from scoring. Despite initially trailing 4-0, the Mets fought back to win and split the four-game series with the Cubs. Marte expressed how such plays boost the team’s morale.
In the bottom of the 11th inning, Daniel Palencia hit Harrison Bader with a pitch, setting the stage for Lindor’s game-winning hit. Lindor’s sharp grounder down the left-field line brought in Brett Baty and Bader, securing the victory for the Mets.
Lindor, although tired from lack of sleep and dehydration, was determined to contribute to the game. He mentioned receiving IV fluids and taking medicine to alleviate his symptoms, which had also affected his family and teammate Joey Wendle recently. Despite feeling unwell, Lindor was prepared and eager to help his team succeed.
Lindor talked about the challenges of being a professional baseball player, mentioning that sometimes you have to take on different roles, like being a substitute player.
In the 11th inning, Nick Madrigal’s double gave the Chicago Cubs a 6-5 lead. It was Danny Young’s first game for the Mets, and despite some nerves, he managed to secure his first win in Major League Baseball. He credited his teammates for their defensive efforts, especially Starling Marte.
Mets’ closer Edwin Díaz had a successful outing, retiring all five batters he faced. This was his first time pitching for more than one inning since his knee surgery last season.
The Cubs had some moments, including Christopher Morel’s three-run homer and stealing six bases. Pete Crow-Armstrong, who was drafted by the Mets in the first round in 2020 but later traded, contributed with two RBIs.
Despite the Cubs’ efforts, manager Craig Counsell acknowledged that it was a tough loss for them in a game where a lot happened.
