In a thrilling finish to the National League Division Series (NLDS), the New York Mets clinched their spot in the National League Championship Series (NLCS) after defeating the Philadelphia Phillies 4-1 in Game 4 on Wednesday. Francisco Lindor delivered the pivotal moment with a grand slam in the sixth inning, the latest in a season full of clutch performances. The Mets, playing at home in Citi Field, closed out the best-of-five series with a 3-1 win, wrapping up a postseason series at home for the first time in 24 years.
Lindor’s grand slam, a towering shot that cleared the right field wall, broke open what had been a tight contest, turning a scoreless game into a 4-0 Mets advantage. His dramatic blast electrified the crowd at Citi Field, marking a high point in what has been a storybook season for the shortstop. The moment served as a continuation of Lindor’s knack for coming through in critical situations, a key factor in the Mets’ postseason run.
The game concluded in fitting fashion, with Mets closer Edwin Díaz on the mound facing Kyle Schwarber and two Phillies runners aboard. Díaz struck out Schwarber to secure the victory, sending the Mets faithful into a frenzy. With the final out recorded, players flooded the field, celebrating their accomplishment in front of their home fans. Outfielder Brandon Nimmo, visibly emotional, embraced Lindor as the team shared a moment of pure joy.
The celebration continued in the locker room, where the Mets partied in style, marking the first champagne-soaked clinching celebration in Citi Field’s 16-season history. Players donned goggles as they popped bottles, reveling in the moment and reflecting on a journey that had brought them to this point. The last time the Mets won a postseason series at home was during the 2000 NLCS at Shea Stadium, a historic achievement that was highlighted on Citi Field’s giant videoboard in center field.
This victory over the Phillies marked the Mets’ third playoff clinch in just 10 days, following their Wild Card Series win. Now, after some well-deserved rest, the Mets turn their attention to the next challenge. They will open the best-of-seven NLCS on Sunday against either the San Diego Padres or the Los Angeles Dodgers, who are set for a decisive Game 5 in their NLDS showdown on Friday in Los Angeles.
Amid the post-game celebrations, Mets slugger Pete Alonso emerged from the clubhouse party, still wearing his protective goggles, to address the jubilant fans who remained in the stands. He expressed his appreciation for their support throughout the season and emphasized the team’s goal to bring another championship back to New York. The Mets, who are seeking their third World Series title and their first since 1986, are now just one step away from the Fall Classic.
As they prepare for the next round, the Mets carry the momentum of a special season and the support of a city that has waited nearly a quarter-century for this moment. For Lindor, Díaz, Alonso, and the rest of the team, the journey continues—with the promise of more unforgettable moments and a shot at making history.
