The New York Mets erupted for seven runs over the final two innings to surge past the Kansas City Royals, 8-3, on Friday night at Kauffman Stadium.
Kodai Senga returned from the injured list and pitched four scoreless innings, navigating early traffic on the bases. The right-hander worked out of multiple jams with timely strikeouts and solid defense behind him, lowering his ERA to 1.39. Alex Carrillo and Huascar Brazoban followed, though Brazoban surrendered a go-ahead two-run home run to Bobby Witt Jr. in the seventh that put Kansas City up 3-1.
New York’s offense finally broke through in the eighth. After loading the bases against Royals closer Carlos Estévez, Mark Vientos, who had earlier smashed his bat in frustration, came through with a clutch bases-clearing double to put the Mets back in front.
The Mets put the game away in the ninth when Francisco Lindor crushed a three-run homer and Juan Soto followed with a solo blast, their back-to-back shots capping the comeback. Lindor’s 19th of the year and Soto’s 22nd helped seal the win.
The Mets (54-41) and Royals (46-49) continue their series on Saturday afternoon, with Frankie Montas set to take the mound. The first pitch is slated for 4:10 p.m.
Kyle leads sports coverage and hosts the Concrete Jungle podcast. Have a lead or question? Send it to [email protected].