Mets Shock Brewers; Set Stage for Intense NL Division Series Against Phillies
PHILADELPHIA – In a stunning turn of events, the New York Mets shocked the Milwaukee Brewers, the entire state of Wisconsin, and probably most of the baseball world on Thursday night, when Pete Alonso hammered a memorable three-run home run in the ninth inning at American Family Field. This pivotal play gave the Mets a lead they would not relinquish in the NL Wild Card Series.
As Alonso rounded first base, he made an emphatic gesture, signaling the weight of the moment with a chef’s kiss.
This powerful hit not only marked a significant win but also sets the stage for what promises to be an electrifying NL Division Series between the Phillies and Mets—an exciting prospect for fans as it marks the first postseason matchup between these NL East rivals.
“Philadelphia-Mets playoff baseball is going to be intense. And both fan bases, I mean, this is exactly what you want, right? Extremely excited for that,”
When is the Game and How Can I Watch It?
Game 1 is scheduled for 4:08 p.m. ET on Saturday at Citizens Bank Park. The game will be televised on FOX.
Fans can also catch the action through MLB.TV (authentication with a participating pay TV provider is required). Live broadcasts will be available in select countries outside the U.S. For more details, click here.
Who are the Starting Pitchers?
Mets manager Carlos Mendoza announced on Friday that Senga will take the mound in Game 1. Senga last pitched in a Major League game on July 26, suffering a severe left calf strain during his 2024 season debut. He had previously missed the first half of the season due to shoulder and triceps injuries, but before his injury, he held a solid performance with two runs allowed over 5 1/3 innings against the Braves, striking out nine.
On the opposing side, Wheeler finished the regular season strong, compiling a record of 6-2 with a 1.89 ERA over his last 11 starts. He’s proven to be effective in the postseason with a 2.42 ERA in 11 playoff appearances (10 starts), making him one of baseball’s top big-game pitchers.
What are the Starting Lineups?
Mets: Manager Mendoza faced a crucial decision at the designated hitter spot between J.D. Martinez and Jesse Winker. Despite both players’ long careers, Winker secured the start despite being 0-for-10 against Wheeler in his career.
Phillies: Phillies manager Rob Thomson has opted to start Brandon Marsh in left field due to his better performance against right-handed pitchers. Johan Rojas also earned a spot in the lineup, showcasing his elite defensive skills.
How Will the Bullpens Line Up After the Starters?
Mets: The Mets relied heavily on Edwin Díaz throughout the Wild Card Series, but with a break before the game, he is likely to be ready for at least one inning of work in Game 1. Right-handers Phil Maton and Ryne Stanek are set to support the lineup, while Danny Young could be positioned against the Phillies’ left-handed hitters.
Phillies: Jeff McNeil is currently sidelined with a fractured right wrist, and while he has started light activities, his return will hinge on the Mets advancing further in the postseason. Austin Hays, who missed the last weekend of the regular season due to back soreness, is reported to be 100% and will be prepared to play.
Who is Hot and Who is Not?
Mets: Francisco Lindor has shown no signs of residual effects from a mid-September back injury and has recorded multiple hits in the last several games. Pete Alonso is keen to carry momentum from his game-winning homer into the upcoming series, hoping to reverse a recent slump.
Phillies: Zack Wheeler has drawn attention from NL Cy Young voters with his impressive late-season performance. Meanwhile, Kyle Schwarber, Harper, and Categorias have all maintained high OPS numbers, while Stott has struggled recently.
Join the Conversation!
Are you excited for the upcoming NL Division Series? Which team are you rooting for, and what are your predictions for the matchups? Let us know your thoughts in the comments below!