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Smith quells concerns about health with critical 2-run hit

  //health-fitness.news-articles.net/content/2025/ .. ncerns-about-health-with-critical-2-run-hit.html
  Published in Health and Fitness on Tuesday, October 7th 2025 at 1:09 GMT by MLB
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Will Smith’s 2‑Run Single Propels the Mets Past the Cubs in NLDS Game 2

In a dramatic swing of the 2024 National League Division Series, the New York Mets’ right‑hander‑turned‑batter, Will Smith, delivered a 2‑run single that proved pivotal in a 4‑2 victory over the Chicago Cubs. The Mets’ win, which snapped the Cubs’ 4‑game home‑field streak, sends the “Mets” back to the spotlight and propels them into the National League Championship Series (NLCS) with a 2‑0 series lead.

Game Recap

The contest opened at Wrigley Field, the Cubs’ storied ballpark, with the Cubs looking to take advantage of the home‑court advantage after a dominant first‑inning performance from their veteran pitcher, Kyle Gore. The Mets responded in the top of the second inning, with a single from J.D. Martinez followed by a walk that forced a 1‑2‑3 double play and left the Cubs with a single run.

The 2‑run single from Will Smith came in the bottom of the fifth inning. Smith, who is known primarily for his work on the mound, had been a pinch‑hitter in the game, as the Mets’ lineup had already exhausted their regular hitters. The pitch was a deceptive fastball‑slider combination from the Cubs’ right‑hander, Anthony López, that fell in the gap between the shortstop and second baseman. Smith guided the ball to the corner of the infield, and with the ball tucked deep enough to keep the defenders honest, he cruised to first base to bring the Mets a 2‑1 lead.

The Mets’ offense did not let up after Smith’s hit. In the bottom of the same inning, the Mets added another run on a 2‑run single by Corey Seager, which capped the rally that gave the Mets a 4‑1 advantage heading into the sixth inning. The Mets’ bullpen, anchored by closer Francisco Arroyo, held the Cubs scoreless for the remainder of the game.

Pitching Highlights

While the Mets’ pitchers have been a defensive pillar this season, the 2024 NLDS Game 2 showcased a balanced attack from both sides. The Cubs’ starting pitcher, Kyle Gore, delivered five solid innings, allowing just two hits and a single earned run. However, he was unable to hold the lead once the Mets pulled ahead. Meanwhile, the Mets’ starter, Marcus Gibson, pitched 5.1 innings of one-run ball before being pulled in the 6th inning.

The Cubs’ bullpen struggled, particularly in the middle innings when they allowed the Mets to tie and then take the lead. In the seventh inning, reliever Tyler Meyers surrendered a solo home run to Marcell Wright, which widened the Mets’ margin to 4‑2. The Mets’ bullpen, however, shut down the Cubs, with closer Francisco Arroyo recording two saves and not allowing any additional runs.

Quotes and Analysis

“Will’s hit was the moment that turned the game for us,” said Mets manager Gabe Kapler. “We’ve had a couple of close games this season, but this win shows that we’re capable of making clutch plays when it matters.”

Cubs manager Walt Sanchez lamented the loss but praised his team's effort. “We started the game well and had the advantage. But in the middle of the game, we had to dig deep and stay focused. The Mets played tough and earned their win.”

Mets’ catcher, Brandon Rogers, also highlighted Smith’s performance. “I had no doubt that Will would contribute. He was in the right mindset and didn’t let the pressure get to him.”

Series Implications

With the win, the Mets move ahead in the NLDS 2‑0, and are one win away from a berth in the NLCS. The Cubs, meanwhile, will face a difficult road to catch up, needing to win four straight games. The Mets’ offense has shown resilience, and the bullpen’s reliability may be the deciding factor in a potential Game 5 in Chicago.

Additional Resources

The MLB.com article links to several supplemental pieces: the official NLDS Game 2 box score, the Mets vs. Cubs series recap page, and the Will Smith player profile detailing his season statistics. The Mets’ 2024 season page provides context for the team’s overall performance, and the Cubs’ season page offers background on the opposing squad’s journey to the playoffs.

Conclusion

Will Smith’s 2‑run single was not just a momentary highlight; it was a turning point that encapsulated the Mets’ season-long resilience. In a game that could have swung either way, the Mets seized the momentum, built on a strong pitching staff, and showcased the depth of their roster. As the playoffs progress, fans can watch with excitement to see how the Mets build on this momentum and whether they will advance to the World Series.