The Grandy Man

Saturday night, Curtis Granderson was not only the Mets offensive star in a crucual victory over the Twins -- but also achieved a "famous first" in franchise history. He became the first Met ever to hit extra inning home runs that, first, tied the game; and then won it. With the club down 2-1 in the bottom of the 11th, he connected off Minnesota's Brandon Kintzler. An inning later, with the score still tied, he homered again off Ryan O'Rourke for a 3-2 victory -- the Mets 10th win in their last 13 games, as they firm their grip on a Wild Card spot.
Granderson has struggled much of this season. His batting average still hovers around .220; it appears he never drives unless he homers. But recently, his bat has warmed up and on Saturday, his timing couldn't hve been better. Curtis' 2016 struggles -- and late season success -- seem to parallel those in 1983 of Hall of Famer Joe Morgan (who, in a cool coincidence has a birthday today). That year, he caught fire in September, and helped lead the Phillies to an improbable race to a divison title and the NL pennant.
Up top, a good look at a Granderson home run swing earlier in September against the Nationals. And below, the low five from 3rd base coach Tim Teufel.
Wish I could have been there, but I was working Saturday night. But I expect to catch this resurgent bunch a couple times this week as they finish their home schedule gainst the Braves and Phillies.

Comments

Popular posts from this blog

Rare Remnant of a Lost Ballpark

Will He Wear Zero in the Bronx?

Spring Training Flashbacks: Subway Series, Florida Style - 2016