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The wild NY Mets win that put them one step closer to the playoffs

The wild New York Mets win that put them one step closer to the playoffs.

Published: Saturday, 3 October 2026 at 10:00 AM
The wild NY Mets win that put them one step closer to the playoffs
Key Things to Know
  • The New York Mets earned a walk-off win against the Pittsburgh Pirates in Game 162 on October 3.
  • Melvin Mora scored the winning run in the bottom of the ninth inning on a wild pitch by Brad Clontz.
  • The 2-1 victory kept the Mets tied with the Cincinnati Reds to force a tiebreaker game.
The Story in 60 Seconds

Tim Boyle recalls the New York Mets' dramatic Game 162 victory against the Pittsburgh Pirates on October 3, 1999, which kept their postseason hopes alive. Entering the day tied with the Cincinnati Reds, the Mets needed a win to force a tiebreaker. Starting pitcher Orel Hershiser limited Pittsburgh to two hits across a strong outing at Shea Stadium.

Despite outhitting Pittsburgh nine to three, the Mets remained tied 1-1 entering the bottom of the ninth. After Melvin Mora reached third base, Pirates reliever Brad Clontz threw a wild pitch on his first delivery to Mike Piazza, allowing Mora to score the winning run.

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