The New York Mets defeated the Milwaukee Brewers 8-4 in the opener of the NL Wild Card Series, thanks to a pivotal five-run fifth inning featuring a tiebreaking two-run single by Mark Vientos. The Mets, who secured their playoff spot with a late rally against the Braves, are now one win away from advancing to the NL Division Series against Philadelphia. Milwaukee, which has lost 10 of its last 11 playoff games, initially led but failed to maintain the advantage. Jesse Winker and J.D. Martinez each contributed two RBIs for the Mets, while Brice Turang, Jackson Chourio, and William Contreras provided key performances for the Brewers. The Brewers must now win two consecutive games to avoid another early postseason exit.