WASHINGTON — “OMG” about sums up Jose Iglesias’ at-bats in extra innings the last two nights.
The veteran infielder has turned into Mr. Clutch for the Mets and provided a spark that his counterpart at second base, Jeff McNeil, has largely lacked.
It was Iglesias’ RBI double in the 10th inning Tuesday — a night after blast I’ming a two-run homer in the same frame — that sent the Mets rolling to a 7-2 victory over the Nationals.
Mets (42-41) won their second straight, needing extra innings for a third straight day to decide the outcome.
After Iglesias’ double broke the tie, Brandon Nimmo and Mark Vientos each drove in runs against Robert Garcia before Pete Alonso smashed a two-run homer.
“It’s been a special month,” said Iglesias, who arrived May 31 and has helped lead a surge in which the team is 19-8. “On and off the field, the energy, the team is winning, we’re playing good baseball. I’m just very happy to be a part of it and contribute to another win today.”
Iglesias, who last week released his new song “OMG” — and performed it following a game at Citi Field — owns a .974 OPS since arriving to the Mets and continues to thrive in the biggest situations.
Included is Iglesias’ 8-for-12 (.750) with runners in scoring position.
“He doesn’t fit the computer models — the computer doesn’t like him,” J.D. Martinez said. “But when you are with him, he’s a gamer, he’s just a good ballplayer. He knows how to put the ball in play. He’s good defensively and plays the game the right way and that’s on the field. Off the field, the energy that he brings, he is good camaraderie for the clubhouse.”
Iglesias’ homer Monday followed a Martinez three-run blast that put the Mets ahead.
The Mets needed it in a 9-7 victory. Over the last two games, the Mets have combined to score 11 runs in the 10th inning.
“That says a lot about the team,” Iglesias said. “The guys stay connected. The game is not over until it’s over.”
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