Edwin Diaz showcases his magic with mid-inning shoe swap to secure victory for Mets
Edwin Diaz, the New York Mets’ reliable closer, added another chapter to his storied career on Friday night at Great American Ball Park. With over 250 saves under his belt, Diaz faced a peculiar challenge as he entered the ninth inning against the Cincinnati Reds with a precarious one-run lead. What unfolded was a blend of drama and athleticism that showcased Diaz’s ability to perform under pressure.
Shoe Mishap in the Heat of Battle
Things took an unexpected turn five batters into the inning when Diaz suddenly halted play, pointing out an issue with his footwear. One of the spikes on his right cleat had come loose, prompting the Mets’ bat boy, Jason Pastuizaca, to rush a new pair to the mound. In a rare scene, Diaz switched shoes while the game continued around him, a moment that could easily have derailed his focus.
However, the seasoned right-hander remained unfazed. After donning his new cleats, Diaz promptly struck out Elly De La Cruz and then retired Gavin Lux, effectively snuffing out the Reds’ hopes and securing a 5-4 victory for the Mets. “I’ve been in that situation before,” Diaz reflected. “I know I’ve got two choices: win the game or lose the game. So I made the right choice: win the game.”
Teammates and Coaches React to the Unconventional Moment
While Diaz took the situation in stride, his teammates were left in disbelief. Reliever Ryne Stanek remarked, “He definitely didn’t make it easy, but it was one hell of a Houdini.” The unexpected footwear change became a talking point among the players, highlighting the unusual circumstances that can arise in high-stakes moments.
Mets manager Carlos Mendoza even turned to third-base coach Mike Sarbaugh during the shoe swap, commenting, “I don’t think I’ve seen anything like it.” Such an unorthodox scenario not only underscored Diaz’s composure but also showcased the camaraderie and shared surprise among the team.
Impact on the Playoff Race
Diaz’s heroics were critical for the Mets, propelling them six games ahead of the Reds in the fiercely contested NL Wild Card race. With their record now at 76-65, the Mets find themselves tied with the San Diego Padres for the second Wild Card spot, a position they aim to defend as the season progresses.
The Mets are set to face the Reds again tonight at 6:40 p.m. ET, as they look to build on this momentum and strengthen their playoff aspirations. The team’s resilience, as demonstrated by Diaz, will be key in the coming challenges as they navigate the final stretch of the season.
