Sep 19, 2024; New York City, New York, USA; New York Mets left fielder Brandon Nimmo (9) celebrates after hitting an RBI double in the fourth inning against the Philadelphia Phillies at Citi Field. Mandatory Credit: Wendell Cruz-Imagn Images
QUEENS, NY — The Mets have needed contributions from every corner of the roster while Francisco Lindor nurses a back injury and in the final two games of their four-game set against the Philadelphia Phillies, it was finally Brandon Nimmo’s time to shine.
The veteran outfielder had been mired in one of the worst stretches in his career following the All-Star break, batting .193 with five home runs and 22 RBI in 53 games from July 19 to Sept. 20. The most concerning thing of all was a .293 on-base percentage during that period — a far cry from his career .372 mark.
“He’s been grinding,” manager Carlos Mendoza said. “It’s been hard for him, especially in this second half after the way he finished the first half. But he is never going to stop working, and he is one of our leaders.”
Things finally fell into place for the 31-year-old on Saturday night when he lofted a go-ahead single in the seventh inning of the Mets’ 6-3 victory. He followed it up with a go-ahead, game-winning solo home run in the sixth inning on Sunday night against Phillies ace Zack Wheeler — his 22nd round-tripper of the year.
“It’s no secret that the second half of the season has been tougher for me,” Nimmo began. “To be able to help these guys down the stretch, that’s all I want to do.”
A simplified approach has helped, especially in big moments that will only intensify with the Mets heading into the final week of the season with an opportunity to clinch a playoff spot against the rival Atlanta Braves.
“It’s really important to be really present in the moment and also have a short-term memory,” Nimmo said. “You have to be a goldfish out here and have that short-term memory. Whether you…
Read the full article here
