The New York Mets delivered a commanding performance to secure a 7-2 victory over the Philadelphia Phillies in Game 3 of the National League Division Series (NLDS), seizing a 2-1 lead that places them tantalizingly close to their first National League Championship Series (NLCS) appearance since 2015.
Dominant Pitching Paves the Way
At the heart of this crucial Mets win was an exceptional outing from pitcher Sean Manaea. Known for his resilience and adaptability, Manaea contained the Phillies' aggressive lineup, limiting them to just one run over seven innings while striking out six. This performance was a notable departure from his previous postseason struggles, where he carried a hefty 15.26 ERA over three appearances. In this postseason alone, he has managed to hold opponents to three runs across 12 innings, demonstrating significant growth and determination.
Manaea's success on the mound is attributed to a critical adjustment he made midseason. Altering his arm slot inspired comparisons to renowned pitcher Chris Sale. This technical shift has evidently paid off, as evidenced by his impressive outing against one of the league's most aggressive lineups. Carlos Mendoza, a member of the Mets' coaching staff, praised Manaea’s aggressive approach saying, "He didn't back down from contact. He didn't back away. We know they are an aggressive lineup, and they showed it right away. They were attacking him but he kept getting the baseball. He had really good rhythm and he went right after. He trusted his stuff. He trusted the game plan, and he didn't back away from it."
A Poignant Dedication
The victory was deeply personal for Manaea, who dedicated his outstanding performance to his Aunt Mabel, who passed away earlier that day. “That game was for her,” Manaea remarked, channeling his grief into a stirring display on the mound that showcased not just his technical prowess but his mental strength.
Mets Offense and Bullpen Strategy
Offensively, the Mets consistently applied pressure on the Phillies' pitching staff, seizing opportunities to bolster their lead. This offensive assertiveness forced the Phillies into challenging situations from which they could not recover. However, not everything was perfect for the Mets, as the bullpen did allow an inherited runner to score. Despite this hiccup, the bullpen's overall effort was sufficient to keep the Phillies from mounting any substantial comeback.
Manaea's Future with the Mets
At age 32, Manaea’s future with the Mets stands as a topic of intrigue. He is poised to opt out of his $13.5 million salary for the 2025 season, likely exploring the free agency market. His current form suggests he will be a highly sought-after player, bringing maturity and a refined skill set to any team willing to secure his services.
The Bigger Picture
As the Mets edge closer to the NLCS, the leadership and performance of players like Manaea become ever more critical. Carlos Mendoza highlighted Manaea’s strategic use of his entire pitching arsenal, particularly lauding his use of the changeup. "I liked how he used all of his pitches, especially the changeup," Mendoza observed. "And when he needed to make pitches, he did an unbelievable job, and like I said, he was on the attack. It was a different look today, even though we seen it the whole year, but his mound presence, his demeanor, like there was something different about him today that I'm just proud of him."
With the Mets now just one victory away from advancing, they remain focused on sustaining this momentum. Their blend of experienced pitching, strategic offensive maneuvers, and a resilient bullpen underscores their determination to push deeper into the postseason, rekindling hopes of a championship run that has eluded them in recent years.