Mets Keep Playoff Hopes Alive With Holmes' Shutout Over Marlins

Clay Holmes delivered a critical performance for the New York Mets, pitching six scoreless innings and allowing only one hit against the Miami Marlins, helping the Mets secure a 5-0 victory that kept their postseason hopes alive heading into the final day of the regular season. This win moved the Mets half a game ahead of the Cincinnati Reds in the National League wild-card race, though the Reds hold the head-to-head tiebreaker and need at least one win in their remaining games to clinch the spot. Pete Alonso contributed significantly with a double and his 38th home run of the season, providing early runs that supported Holmes' dominant outing. Holmes, transitioning successfully from reliever to starter, finished the season with a 3.53 ERA and 12-8 record over a career-high 165 2/3 innings, showing reliability crucial to the Mets' playoff push. The Mets bullpen, including Brooks Raley, Tyler Rogers, and Edwin Díaz, maintained the shutout after Holmes' efficient departure. The game underscored the Mets' determination and the need for continued strong performances as they face a decisive Game 162 to determine their playoff fate.