Jose Iglesias had a standout performance with three hits, including a pivotal two-run single that broke a tie in the sixth inning, leading the New York Mets to a 6-2 victory over the Washington Nationals on Wednesday night.
Brandon Nimmo continued his impressive form by hitting a home run for the third consecutive game, while Mark Vientos contributed with a clutch double that leveled the score for the Mets (46-45). This win marked their 10th victory in their last 12 home games, bringing them within half a game of the final NL wild card spot currently held by San Diego.
The Mets’ resurgence has been remarkable, considering they were 11 games under .500 just over a month ago, shortly after Iglesias was called up from Triple-A Syracuse.
“I’m just very humbled to be a part of it,” Iglesias commented on the team’s recent success.
Luis Severino (6-3) delivered a strong performance on the mound, pitching into the seventh inning. Despite a bullpen that has struggled recently, three relievers managed to hold the Nationals to just one hit over 2 2/3 scoreless innings. José Buttó, in his fifth relief appearance after transitioning from a starter, secured his first career save by retiring all four batters he faced, including two strikeouts.
Manager Carlos Mendoza praised Buttó’s aggressive approach on the mound, highlighting his contribution to the bullpen’s solid outing.
Iglesias, who spent last season in the minors, has been particularly effective with runners in scoring position, boasting a .526 batting average (10 for 19) in such situations. His overall batting average stands at .338 with 14 RBIs this season.
“When you’ve got runners in scoring position, putting the ball in play means a lot, and this guy’s been doing it for a long time,” Mendoza noted.
Vientos’ timely double tied the game at 2-2 in the sixth inning, setting the stage for Iglesias’ key hit that gave the Mets a 4-2 lead. Iglesias later scored an additional run for the Mets due to an error by Nationals’ second baseman Luis García Jr.
