2 signs the Mets can rebound in Game 3 vs. the Brewers, 2 red flags signaling they’re done

A decisive Game 3 is scheduled for Thursday.

Milwaukee Brewers' Brice Turang (2) beats a throw to New York Mets second baseman Jose Iglesias (11) by shortstop Francisco Lindor (12) during the third inning of their wild-card playoff game against the New York Mets Wednesday, October 2, 2024 at American Family Field in Milwaukee, Wisconsin.
Milwaukee Brewers' Brice Turang (2) beats a throw to New York Mets second baseman Jose Iglesias (11) by shortstop Francisco Lindor (12) during the third inning of their wild-card playoff game against the New York Mets Wednesday, October 2, 2024 at American Family Field in Milwaukee, Wisconsin. | Mark Hoffman/Milwaukee Journal Sentinel / USA TODAY NETWORK via Imagn Images
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Sign the Mets rebound: They created opportunities in the loss they need to cash in on

As poorly as the offense performed, they did create opportunities to score. Their 8 singles, 4 walks, and hit by pitch created some trouble on the base paths. It wasn’t all just with two outs either. The fourth, sixth, and eighth innings all began with a single or walk. Big strikeouts and a double play led to goose eggs in those even-numbered late innings.

One lucky bounce could very well have changed the outcome of this game. A big swing could have done the same.

The Mets hitters froze up in this one but they can quickly thaw for Game 3. There is no strategic change to make. Other than putting the ball in play in those spots, it’s all about executing.

Mets hitters only struck out 7 times which isn’t a whole lot. A good number just seemed to happen when they had opportunities to sneak a single through the infield. They didn’t fan once in the final three innings. Making contact is the first step to getting a hit. The issue wasn’t contact. It was making contact when it mattered most.

Schedule