Mets fans scanning the box score will likely zero in on Bryce Harper’s two home runs as the key factor in New York’s 6-4 defeat against the Phillies on Saturday at Citizens Bank Park.
A closer examination reveals that center fielder Cal Stevenson, an unfamiliar name to most Mets supporters, was the true difference-maker in Philadelphia’s victory. Mets manager Carlos Mendoza acknowledged Stevenson’s performance, remarking on the impact he had.
“I didn’t know much about him before this series,” Mendoza admitted. “But he came through with a crucial hit and made a huge defensive play against J.D. (Martinez). He’s a good player, and they’re a strong team.”
Stevenson’s pivotal moment came in the seventh inning after Harper’s home runs had trimmed the Mets’ lead to 4-3. With runners on second and third, Stevenson battled to a full count against Reed Garrett. On the sixth pitch, a cutter that looked well-placed low and inside, Stevenson connected for a sharp double to right, giving the Phillies a 5-4 edge.
“I thought it was a solid pitch,” Garrett reflected. “Walking him would’ve been worse, so I tried to challenge him, but he made a great swing.”
In the next inning, the Mets nearly answered. J.D. Martinez launched a 404-foot drive to center, only for Stevenson to leap and make an incredible grab, robbing what could’ve been a game-tying home run.
Phillies announcer Tom McCarthy’s reaction captured the moment: “It’s The Cal Stevenson game, are you kidding me?”
This game might linger for the Mets, especially if they fall short of the postseason by a single game. Martinez’s hit, with a .760 expected batting average, would have been a homer in 18 of 30 ballparks, according to Statcast.