Francisco Alvarez's return sparks a huge comeback as the Mets rally to beat the Angels 7-5 on July 22, 2025. Read how the catcher ignited the offense.
StatPro MLB Beat Reporter
Just when it looked like a quiet Tuesday night at Citi Field was turning into a dud, the New York Mets flipped the script with a jolt of energy from a familiar face. Down 4-0 to the Los Angeles Angels, the Mets clawed their way back, culminating in a wild eighth-inning rally to seal a dramatic 7-5 victory, proving once again that no lead is safe against this resilient squad.
We’re here for the reason of winning. That’s the most important thing.
The catalyst for the comeback was none other than Francisco Alvarez, making his much-anticipated return from Triple-A. Playing with a chip on his shoulder, Alvarez immediately made his presence felt, going 1-for-2 with two crucial walks and a booming double to kickstart the go-ahead rally in the eighth. He also nabbed a runner trying to steal, reminding everyone of his impact on both sides of the ball. His postgame comments summed up the night perfectly: 'It feels good and it’s super important. Especially because we got the win... Had we lost this game... it wouldn’t have felt the same.' That's the winning attitude this team needed.
The offense wouldn't have had a chance to rally if not for the heroic effort of the bullpen. After starter Frankie Montas was knocked out after just three innings, manager Carlos Mendoza had to turn to his relievers early. Kevin Herget, Chris Devenski, Huscar Brazoban, Brooks Raley, and Edwin Diaz were simply masterful, combining to allow just one run over six innings of work. They kept the Angels' bats quiet and the game within reach. The night was capped off by a vintage performance from Diaz, who struck out the side in the ninth for an emphatic save.
The comeback was cemented in a chaotic and thrilling bottom of the eighth. It all started with Alvarez's double. After a walk, Brett Baty—who had already put the Mets on the board with a two-run homer in the fourth—scored the go-ahead run on a sharp grounder from pinch-hitter Ronny Mauricio. An error on the throw to the plate by catcher Logan O'Hoppe allowed Baty to slide in safely, sending Citi Field into a frenzy. Brandon Nimmo added a sacrifice fly for a key insurance run, capping a three-run inning that snatched the win from the jaws of defeat.
This wasn't just another win in July; it was a significant move in the standings. With the victory, the Mets improved to 57-44 and, more importantly, leapfrogged into sole possession of second place in the National League East. They now sit just a half-game behind the division-leading Philadelphia Phillies. After a rollercoaster season, the Mets are officially in the thick of a pennant race, and every single game counts.
This team has grit. With Alvarez providing a spark, the bullpen looking nearly unhittable, and different heroes stepping up each night, the Mets are sending a clear message to the rest of the league. The division is within reach, the momentum is building, and the dog days of summer in Queens just got a whole lot more exciting. Buckle up, Mets fans.
