- Edwin Díaz delivered a signature performance, striking out Yankees slugger Aaron Judge to seal
With two outs and the tying run on first, Díaz faced Judge in a matchup loaded with tension and star power. Judge, known for his game-changing power, worked the count to 2-2 before Díaz unleashed a devastating 100 mph fastball that blew past the Yankees captain for a swinging strike three. As the stadium erupted, Díaz turned toward the Mets dugout, raised his arms, and emphatically dropped an imaginary mic — a bold celebration that instantly went viral.
“I was just in the moment,” Díaz said postgame. “That’s a big-time hitter in a big-time situation. I had to bring my best, and I did. The mic drop? Just adrenaline. It felt right.”
The victory was a much-needed morale boost for the Mets, who have been battling inconsistency this season. Díaz, returning from injury this year, has been rounding back into his dominant 2022 form. His command and velocity looked sharp throughout the inning, and the punchout of Judge marked his 12th save of the season.
Mets manager Carlos Mendoza praised his closer’s poise under pressure. “That’s Edwin at his best. He thrives in those moments. He wasn’t just pitching — he was making a statement.”
Judge, ever the professional, took the loss in stride. “He threw a great pitch. That’s why he’s one of the best closers in the game. We had our chances, and we’ll be ready next time.”
The intense crosstown rivalry between the Mets and Yankees never lacks fireworks, and this edition delivered another unforgettable chapter. Díaz’s mic-drop moment added flair to an already riveting evening of baseball, cementing his place once again as one of the game’s most electric relievers.
