Mets stun Angels 7-5 on July 22, 2025, in a huge comeback win. Francisco Alvarez shines in his return, with key hits from Soto & Baty. Read how they did it.
StatPro MLB Beat Reporter
Down four runs late in the game, the Citi Field faithful could have been forgiven for heading for the exits. But on a magical Monday night in Queens, something special happened. Sparked by the electric return of Francisco Alvarez, the Mets clawed their way back, piece by piece, to snatch a 7-5 victory from the jaws of defeat against the Los Angeles Angels. It wasn't just a win; it was a statement.
Francisco Alvarez, in his first game back from Triple-A: 2-for-3 with a double and two crucial walks.
For a while, it looked bleak. The Mets were trailing 5-1, and the offense seemed stuck in the mud. But the tide turned in the later innings. It wasn't about one massive home run, but a series of relentless, professional at-bats. The Mets capitalized on every Angels miscue, with Brett Baty delivering a key swing and Juan Soto coming through with the game-tying hit. The bullpen was lights out, slamming the door shut and giving the offense the chance it needed. As social media erupted in praise of 'small-ball' and hustle, it was clear this win resonated with a fanbase that values grit as much as power.
The undisputed catalyst for the rally was the man behind the plate. Sent down to Triple-A to work on his approach, Francisco Alvarez returned looking like a changed player. He didn't try to do too much, working two critical walks before lacing an eighth-inning double off the right-field wall that blew the game open. His patience and power were on full display, providing the exact spark the lineup has been missing. This wasn't just a good game; it was a powerful demonstration of why the organization believes in him and a sign that his trip to the minors paid off in a big way.
This gutsy win comes at a pivotal time, with the July 31 trade deadline looming. While the front office, led by David Stearns, has been quiet so far, a performance like this surely impacts their strategy. Does the energy from Alvarez's return change their list of needs? Victories fueled by homegrown talent showcase the organization's growing strength from within. With the farm system earning praise for its depth following the recent draft addition of Voit, Stearns has more flexibility than ever. He can choose to supplement this resilient core or trust the pieces already in place, knowing the foundation is stronger than it's been in years.
One win doesn't make a season, but this one felt different. It was a testament to resilience, a validation of player development, and a jolt of energy right when the team needed it most. With the trade deadline clock ticking and the team firing on all cylinders at home, this comeback against the Angels could be the spark that ignites a memorable second-half run. The Mets are showing their fight, and the rest of the league should take notice.
