Mets top White Sox to move two games behind Braves in wild-card race
CHICAGO — The Mets received some needed bullpen pitching additions before the trade deadline, but it's the left-handed hitter they acquired that's making the biggest splash recently. Jesse Winker's performance transforms him from a nice extra into a key member of a lineup that has been searching for a hero. On Saturday night, the veteran […]
J.D. Martinez trying to keep Mets in hunt during tight NL wild-card race
CHICAGO — Having played in the postseason and won a championship with four different teams, J.D. Martinez brings a perspective to the Mets clubhouse that few others can relate to. The No. 1 rule for Martinez, especially at this stage in the season, is to block out the outside noise. “Guys tend to get hung […]
Mets offense busts out in key win over wild-card rival Diamondbacks
PHOENIX — It was a far cry from the playoff atmosphere the Mets have faced in San Diego over the past four games, but the quality of the opponent was similar and so was the opening day result. Ultimately, the results over the next two days of this series will be key, but the Mets […]
Why rewarding extra wild-card spots is best for sports playoffs
I understand that sentiment, and to some extent I agree. Playoffs are diluted in every sport. There are so many spots that the regular season often feels like just an extended exhibition schedule. Many baseball fans still fondly remember the days from 1903 to 1968 when there were two leagues (first eight teams each, then […]
Breaking down Mets’ competition in tight NL wild-card race
ANAHEIM, Calif. — The speculation over who will finish where in the standings is finally over, and the focus is now on the postseason with two months remaining. The Mets began a 10-game road trip on Friday by welcoming one of their trade deadline acquisitions, Paul Blackburn, to face the Angels. The Mets, the most […]