Mets’ Impressive Win Led by Alonso and Peterson

Pete Alonso, alongside his teammate Brandonnimo’s two home runs and Juan Soto’s fifth home run over the last 11 games, played a key role in a game marked by David Peterson’s complete game shutout. It’s interesting to note how Alonso seems to deliver quietly yet effectively.

Alonso continues to showcase his hitting prowess and defensive skills, which seem to exceed the usual numbers, indicating his hot streak is more than just a brief phase this season.

His RBI double in the first inning provided the only run necessary for the Mets, allowing Peterson to pitch a flawless nine innings for the first time in his career, resulting in a 5-0 win against the Nationals at Citi Field.

By cleverly hitting two curveballs from Jake Irvin, and then sending one soaring over the center field wall with a drive aided by Nemo, Alonso has now extended his on-base streak to 19 games, contributing to an eight-game winning streak.

During this streak, he’s hit an impressive 44 times, with 14 hits being extra-base hits, scoring nine runs, driving in 17 RBIs, and achieving a remarkable 1.470 OPS.

Though often overlooked defensively, Alonso made some crucial plays that helped Peterson navigate through the challenging phases of the game. For instance, he skillfully scooped up a throw from third baseman Ronnie Mauricio that was awfully low in the second inning.

In the seventh inning, he managed to stop a ground ball from Alex Cole, picking it up and winning a close footrace to the bag.

Peterson acknowledged this teamwork, stating, “The defense makes some big plays, and Pete knocks down that ball. Sure, I’m getting recognition for it, but this was a big team victory.”

Meanwhile, Jeff McNeill extended his own on-base streak to 14 games after managing one hit in four at-bats.

On the topic of the Mets’ pitching, there’s a bit of uncertainty surrounding Paul Blackburn since returning from the injured list. He pitched five scoreless innings at Dodger Stadium on June 2nd but is currently in a transitional phase, somewhat detached from the regular starting rotation after recovering from a knee injury.

After being shifted to the bullpen, he had a decent outing, pitching four innings on Sunday with 71 pitches used.

Carlos Mendoza was asked if Blackburn would be sticking in the piggyback role, and he responded, “That’s not necessarily the case.” He added that it simply worked out that way during their recent game in Colorado, where some bullpen members were unavailable.

“We see him having the potential for 75-80 pitches, and if needed, we may call on him for a few innings,” he noted.

Interestingly, despite starting 83 games in his career, Blackburn has only made five appearances in a relief role and is willing to adjust his position if required. The Mets initially acquired him at last year’s trade deadline, but his time with the team has been marred by injuries.

On a different note, Mark Bientos is back at it, taking swings in the batting cage and doing some jogging in the outfield. He has been sidelined with right hamstring tension since June 2nd, but it seems he’s on the brink of beginning his rehab assignment.

Lastly, it’s worth mentioning that several within the Mets organization, including some coaches, were seen wearing “Voting Mets” shirts as part of the push for the All-Star selections.