The Mets' historic 16-7 victory over the Nationals on May 18, 2026, was a testament to the team's resilience and offensive prowess. This game showcased a rare and thrilling extra-inning spectacle, with the Mets scoring an astonishing 10 runs in the 12th inning, a feat not seen in 43 years. This achievement not only broke a franchise record but also placed them among the elite in Major League history, joining just six other teams to score double-digit runs in a single extra inning.
What makes this accomplishment even more remarkable is the sequence of events that unfolded. Entering the 12th inning, the game was tied at 5-5, with both teams having submitted scoreless 10th innings and each scoring a lone run in the 11th. The Mets' offensive explosion began with a sacrifice bunt by catcher Hayden Senger, setting the stage for a dramatic inning.
Carson Benge, the Mets' rookie, played a pivotal role in this turnaround. His single home run was the first in a string of hits that propelled the Mets to victory. Benge's trust in his ability to put the ball in play and his teammates' trust in him proved to be a winning formula. Bo Bichette, Juan Soto, and Vidal Bruján followed suit, contributing singles and a bunt that fell between home plate and the mound, respectively.
The Mets' offensive onslaught continued with Brett Baty's two-run single and Marcus Semien's run-scoring hit, extending their lead to five runs. This prompted Nationals manager Blake Butera to bring in position player Jorbit Vivas to the mound, but the Mets' bats showed no signs of slowing down.
A.J. Ewing, Senger, Benge, and Bichette all singled, with Benge and Bichette delivering consecutive two-run doubles. The inning ended with 10 runs, nine hits, 13 batters, and a collective sigh of relief from the visiting dugout. The Mets' ability to feed off each other's momentum and grind out at-bats was a key factor in their success.
Manager Carlos Mendoza's sentiment, 'Every day, you see something new in baseball,' perfectly encapsulates the excitement and unpredictability of the sport. The Mets' performance in this game was a testament to their ability to adapt and capitalize on opportunities, making it a memorable and historic moment in their season.
