Martinez and Iglesias Power Mets to Thrilling 10th-Inning Win Over Nationals

J.D. Martinez and Jose Iglesias homered in a six-run 10th inning, as the New York Mets edged out the Washington Nationals 9-7, spoiling the major league debut of outfield prospect James Wood. The Mets (41-41) halted a two-game losing streak, improving their record to 17-6 in their last 23 games.

Harrison Bader Sets the Stage

In the opener of a four-game series between NL East rivals, Harrison Bader was hit by a pitch at the start of the 10th, putting two runners on base. Martinez then followed with his 10th homer, breaking an 0-for-12 slump with a drive to center field off Hunter Harvey (2-4). Martinez reflected on his pivotal hit, noting, I’m just trying to get something up because the last thing I wanted to do is swing at that splitter in the dirt.

Francisco Alvarez Shines

Tyrone Taylor doubled with two outs before Francisco Alvarez hit his first career triple, which ricocheted high off the right-field wall. Alvarez’s milestone hit added crucial insurance runs for the Mets.

Iglesias Adds to the Lead

Iglesias made it 9-3 with a two-run blast to center field, marking his first major league home run since July 13, 2022. Reflecting on the game, Mets manager Carlos Mendoza stated, After the three-run homer, [we] continued with really good at-bats, continued to put pressure, and that was the difference in the ballgame.

Nationals Rally Falls Short

Washington attempted a comeback in the bottom of the tenth. Reed Garrett stepped up to face Luis Garcia Jr., striking him out with two on base to secure his fourth save. Speaking of Garrett’s performance, Mendoza commented, You’re trying to stay away from Reed Garrett because we’ve been running this guy pretty hard… I’m glad he came in and shut the door and got us a W.

A Mixed Night for James Wood

The Nationals introduced their top prospect James Wood who went 1-for-4 in his debut. Wood was called up from Triple-A Rochester and showed promise despite mixed results. Describing his feelings about his MLB debut, Wood said, It’s just like the first time doing something… playing in front of a crowd like that and obviously in the major leagues.