MIAMI (AP) — In a thrilling showdown at loanDepot park, Pete Alonso delivered a spectacular performance that propelled the New York Mets to a dramatic 6-5 victory over the Miami Marlins on Wednesday, April 2, 2025. With the Mets trailing 4-1 in the eighth inning, Alonso stepped up to the plate with two runners on and two outs, and he didn’t disappoint.
Alonso launched a three-run homer that tied the game, sending Mets fans into a frenzy and marking a pivotal moment in the matchup. The ball rocketed off his bat at 113.4 mph, showcasing his power and precision. His stellar night didn’t stop there; he also doubled twice and finished with four RBIs, making him the undisputed hero of the game.
Juan Soto also had a notable performance, scoring three times as the Mets utilized eight pitchers to secure their second win of the three-game series, finishing their season-opening trip with a 3-3 record. The Mets are set to play their home opener against the Toronto Blue Jays on Friday, April 4, 2025.
In the 11th inning, Alonso drew a leadoff walk from Marlins pitcher Xzavion Curry (0-1), and Brandon Nimmo's single loaded the bases with nobody out. Jesse Winker then walked to give the Mets a 5-4 lead, and Alonso scored on an error by shortstop Xavier Edwards, who had a challenging night despite his four hits.
José Buttó (1-0) came in and threw two perfect innings on just 15 pitches, setting the stage for Huascar Brazobán, who entered the game with two on to protect a 6-5 lead. Brazobán, who was traded from the Marlins to the Mets last July, secured his first save in 119 major league appearances by getting two outs.
The game was filled with tension, especially in the eighth inning when Edwards appeared to score the go-ahead run for Miami with a headfirst slide after dashing home from third on a grounder to second baseman Brett Baty. However, after a replay challenge, the call was overturned, and Edwards was ruled out, keeping the game tied.
Alonso's homer came after a grueling nine-pitch at-bat against Calvin Faucher, showcasing his determination and skill. "I’m just looking to get a good pitch to hit over the middle of the plate," Alonso remarked after the game. "Thankfully, for me, I was fighting off some really tough pitches there. He came at me with his best stuff, and he located some good ones -- especially early in the count -- but I was able to just stay under control and let the ball show up where I wanted it to."
Despite a lackluster offensive day for the Mets, who posted a combined .220 batting average and went just 3-for-16 with runners in scoring position, Alonso’s performance shone brightly. His four RBIs matched the entire tally for the Marlins, underlining his impact on the game.
Manager Carlos Mendoza praised Alonso's plate discipline and ability to control the strike zone, stating, "We know the power is real. First at-bat today, smoked the ball in the gap, then that homer in the eighth was pretty impressive. But you see him take walks, you see him laying off some tough pitches. And that's who he is."
Miami's Edwards, despite his four hits, faced challenges throughout the game, including the overturned call that could have shifted the momentum in the Marlins' favor. Edwards began the bottom of the 11th with an RBI single off Danny Young, but ultimately, Miami couldn’t capitalize on their opportunities.
Griffin Conine added three hits for the Marlins, but the team fell short in the end. The Mets’ victory marked their first series win of the season, and they are looking to carry this momentum into their home opener.
As the Mets prepare to return to Citi Field, Alonso expressed his excitement, saying, "I'm really excited. That moment [Friday], it’s going to be so awesome. Any guy lives for those little moments like that, so it's going to be really special. [I’m] stoked to be back. This is a great group. Playing at Citi Field is super, super special. It's such a sick place to play, I love it."
With Tylor Megill (1-0) set to start against Blue Jays RHP Kevin Gausman (1-0) in the home opener, the Mets are looking to build on this thrilling victory and find their rhythm early in the season.
The Marlins will visit Atlanta for their next game, where they hope to bounce back and regain their momentum.
As the excitement builds for the Mets’ home opener, fans can look forward to seeing if Alonso can continue his impressive start to the season and help lead the team to further victories.
