Mets' John Franco Preserves 5-4 Victory over Dodgers with Gutsy Save

Strategic Insights -

In a tense 5-4 game at Shea Stadium, Mets closer John Franco made two crucial plays in the ninth inning, including a surprise pickoff throw to first baseman David Segui, that defused a potentially volatile situation and preserved Bret Saberhagen's one-run lead. Franco's decision to throw to third base on a bunt by Delino DeShields and his ensuing pickoff throw to Segui showcased his craftiness on the mound, as he effectively prevented the Dodgers from taking the lead.

Key Takeaways:

  • Franco made two key plays in the ninth inning, including a surprise pickoff throw to first baseman David Segui that caught DeShields in a rundown and ultimately ended the threat.
  • Franco's decision to throw to third base on a bunt by DeShields was a risky one, but ultimately paid off as he threw the ball in high and Butler was out.
  • Saberhagen pitched into the seventh and became only the fifth National League pitcher to win 11 or more games this year, improving to 11-2.
  • The Mets took both the game and the series from the Dodgers, who lost 2 of 3 in New York to further shrink their lead in the National League West.
  • Franco's 22d save of the season and Saberhagen's 11th victory were crucial in securing the win for the Mets.
  • Manager Dallas Green made an unusual mound visit and removed Saberhagen from the game in the seventh inning, the first time he had done so prior to the seventh inning for a reason other than injury.
  • Saberhagen was happy with the victory but was not thrilled with his linescore, which included 9 hits and 4 earned runs over six and one-third innings.

Statistics:

  • Franco's save was number 22 of the season.
  • Saberhagen improved to 11-2 on the year, becoming only the fifth National League pitcher to win 11 or more games this year.
  • The Mets' victory marked their 11th win of the season for Saberhagen.
  • The Dodgers lost 2 of 3 in New York, further shrinking their lead in the National League West.
  • DeShields has five stolen bases against the Mets this season.
  • Bonilla hit his 16th homer of the season in the third inning, a two-run shot that helped stake Saberhagen to a 5-2 lead.

Sources:

  • "Franco Preserves 5-4 Win as Saberhagen Gets 11th Victory," by Bill Livingston, in the Los Angeles Times, no date mentioned.
  • "Mets 5, Dodgers 4; Franco's Save Secures Win," by Jerry Doolittle, in the New York Daily News, no date mentioned.