Francisco Lindor’s subdued trip around the bases after his series-clinching grand slam in the 2024 National League Division Series had a deliberate rhythm: breathe, stay present and keep the moment from becoming overwhelming.
The Mets shortstop revisited the home run on the latest episode of the 6-1-1 Podcast with former Philadelphia Phillies stars Ryan Howard and Jimmy Rollins, according to MLB.com’s Jared Greenspan. His explanation offers a look at the thoughts behind a notably calm reaction while the celebration unfolded around him.
“We just have to be in the moment and not try to be bigger than the moment — I remember thinking that,” Lindor said on the podcast, as quoted by MLB.com.
From thinking double to knowing he had it
The Mets were trailing the Phillies 1-0 in the sixth inning of Game 4 when Lindor came to the plate with the bases loaded and one out. New York had already left eight runners on base through the first five innings.
Philadelphia brought closer Carlos Estévez into the game earlier than usual. Lindor connected on a 2-1 fastball, but his initial assessment was more modest than the result.
“I remember hitting the ball and saying, ‘Ooh, double.’ That was my first thought,” Lindor said, according to MLB.com.
He recalled reminding himself to breathe while still holding the bat, then repeating that instruction as he took another step. After dropping the bat, he remembered thinking he had gotten the pitcher.
The grand slam put New York ahead in a victory that clinched the series. According to MLB.com, it was only the third postseason home run in Mets history to turn a deficit into a lead in the sixth inning or later.
More from Lindor’s podcast appearance
The conversation also covers the significance of Lindor winning the Roberto Clemente Award and his approach to playing shortstop.
MLB.com says the episode is available through MLB.com, MLB.TV, podcast platforms and YouTube.
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