Jose Iglesias got three hits, including a single that gave the New York Mets the lead in the fifth inning, while Mark Vientos hit a homer as they held off the Washington Nationals 8-7 on Monday night.
The Mets’ bullpen, which has struggled lately, almost lost the lead again. The Nationals scored two runs in the ninth inning against Adam Ottavino, but Jake Diekman struck out Drew Millas with runners at the corners to save the game.
The Mets have had a tough time holding onto leads late in games lately. Diekman managed to bounce back from a tough outing the day before.
Starling Marte also had a good game with three hits and two runs scored. Luis Torrens, batting ninth, had a two-run double in his second start as catcher for the Mets.
Iglesias, filling in for the struggling Jeff McNeil, got three singles in his second start since being called up from the minors.
Iglesias said there are many ways to help a team, not just by hitting or playing defense. He emphasized the importance of energy and staying positive throughout the long baseball season.
Harrison Bader celebrated his 30th birthday with two sacrifice flies for the Mets. Iglesias’ RBI single put the Mets ahead in the fifth inning, and Torrens’ double extended their lead.