Mets Dominate Phillies in Crucial NLDS Game 3
The New York Mets edged closer to a National League Championship Series (NLCS) appearance, securing a commanding 7-2 victory over the Philadelphia Phillies in Game 3 of the National League Division Series (NLDS). The win pushes the Mets to a 2-1 series lead, leaving them just one win away from their first NLCS appearance since 2015.
Sean Manaea's Commanding Performance
At the heart of the Mets' success was an exceptional performance from pitcher Sean Manaea, who held the Phillies to just one run over seven innings. Manaea struck with precision, recording six strikeouts and keeping the aggressive Phillies' lineup at bay. Manager Carlos Mendoza praised Manaea's resilience, 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."
Manaea's performance was particularly notable given his previous postseason struggles, where he had a daunting 15.26 ERA over three appearances. This year, however, Manaea has turned his playoff narrative around, allowing only three runs across 12 innings. A midseason adjustment to his arm slot—drawing comparisons to Chris Sale’s delivery—has been a game-changer, enhancing his effectiveness on the mound.
Pitcher with a Purpose
Emotionally charged, Manaea dedicated the game to his Aunt Mabel, who passed away earlier that day. “That game was for her,” Manaea remarked, highlighting a personal motivation behind his standout performance. His demeanor and presence on the mound caught the attention of Mendoza, who noted, "There was something different about him today that I'm just proud of him."
Consistent Offensive Pressure
While Manaea's pitching was the backbone of the victory, the Mets’ offense played a crucial role in maintaining consistent pressure on the Phillies’ pitching staff. Early and frequent scoring ensured the Mets held the upper hand throughout the game, dictating the pace and keeping their opponents on the defensive.
The Mets’ strategy also brought light to their bullpen's ability to manage adversities, even as they allowed an inherited runner to score. Their relentless offensive approach was a testament to their preparation and execution against a skilled Phillies team.
Future Considerations
Despite the immediate celebrations, Sean Manaea is expected to face career-defining decisions soon. At 32 years old, he is anticipated to opt out of his $13.5 million salary for 2025, potentially opening the door for a free agency exploration. Given his recent performances and the adjustments that have propelled him this postseason, Manaea could draw significant interest.
The Mets are on the precipice of a major milestone after years of anticipation. With their sights firmly set on clinching the series, the momentum is squarely in their favor as they prepare for the next contest. However, the Phillies, known for their resilience, are not to be counted out yet. The series continues to promise high stakes and potential surprises as it progresses.