For The New York Mets, And MLB, The One Game Wild Card Is Perfect 1
Oct 1, 2016; Philadelphia, PA, USA; New York Mets first baseman James Loney (28) celebrates after hitting a two-run home run during the sixth inning against the Philadelphia Phillies at Citizens Bank Park. Mandatory Credit: Derik Hamilton-USA TODAY Sport

Off the strength of Bartolo Colon and a unique James Loney bat flip, the New York Mets have clinched home field in the NL Wild Card Game.

  • New York Mets 5 (87-74)
  • Philadelphia Phillies 3 (70-91)
  • NL, Final, Box Score
  • Citizens Bank Park, Philadelphia, PA

It was an ordinary looking home run with a not-so-ordinary looking finish at the plate.

James Loney‘s unique bat-flip at home plate of Citizens Bank Park on Saturday afternoon put the exclamation point on a 2016 season for the New York Mets that provides nothing but sheer grit and determination.

This Mets club, who’s battled injury and adversity all season long, knocked off the Philadelphia Phillies 5-3 to claim home-field advantage in the NL Wild Card Game to take place this coming Wednesday night in Flushing.

Bartolo Colon took the ball from manager Terry Collins today and sparkled. His five innings of work saw only two Philly runs cross the plate. He struck out six and allowed five hits.

Ryan Howard solo home run off reliever Fernando Salas was the only blemish on the day in a strong bullpen effort by the Amazins.

Jeurys Familia wrapped it up in style:

The aforementioned Loney took home the belt today. It was his 2-run shot in the 6th-inning that broke a 2-2 tie. Better than the home run was the unique bat-flip Loney showcased:

Asdrubal Cabrera finished 2-for-4 with a RBI and Jose Reyes chipped in with a hit and an RBI himself.

The Mets 87th win of the season now assures them a date on Wednesday night at Citi Field with their ace, Noah Syndergaard, on the mound. There will be no crying, only the right to face the Chicago Cubs in the NLDS.

Robby Sabo is a co-founder, CEO and credentialed New York Jets content creator for Jets X-Factor - Jet X, which includes Sabo's Sessions (in-depth film breakdowns) and Sabo with the Jets. Host: Underdog Jets Podcast with Wayne Chrebet and Sabo Radio. Member: Pro Football Writers of America. Coach: Port Jervis (NY) High School. Washed up strong safety and 400M runner. SEO: XL Media. Founder: Elite Sports NY - ESNY (Sold in 2020). SEO: XL Media. Email: robby.sabo[at]jetsxfactor.com