Jeff McNeil hit a game-winning single in the 10th inning on a fly ball that fell after Ramón Laureano overran it in the right-field corner, leading the New York Mets to a 3-2 victory over the Atlanta Braves on Thursday night and extending their winning streak to four games.
“That was a lot of fun,” McNeil said. “Just happy we came out on top.”
Atlanta had retired 17 consecutive batters before Pierce Johnson (3-2) intentionally walked Pete Alonso with one out in the 10th inning.
Mark Vientos struck out, and McNeil hit a fly ball that Laureano, positioned toward center field, overran and couldn’t catch as he reached back over his shoulder near the foul line. The ball landed for the Mets’ third hit of the game, allowing the automatic runner, Jose Iglesias, to score from second base.
“I overran it but should have caught the ball, no excuses,” Laureano said. “Let the team down today, for sure.”
McNeil has 12 RBIs in his last nine games, hitting .387 during that time and raising his season average to .231.
“He’s a big part of this team,” Mets manager Carlos Mendoza said. “It’s good to see him continue to get results.”
McNeil had a .196 average with 13 RBIs over 43 games from May 18 through July 12.
“I’m just trying to be Happy Jeff right now,” McNeil said with a grin, wearing a T-shirt that says “Positive Vibes.” “Things finally starting to go my way, which is nice. So, hopefully, keep it going.”
McNeil’s hit capped off a frustrating final two innings for the Braves.
Laureano began the 10th inning as the automatic runner and advanced to third base on Orlando Arcia’s sacrifice. As Laureano sprinted home on a squeeze play, Jarred Kelenic held back his bat on a pitch from Phil Maton (2-2). Laureano was caught in a rundown and collided hard with catcher Francisco Alvarez as he was tagged out.
