Yardbarker
x
Mark Vientos Reacts to Mets' Win Over Royals
Brad Penner-USA TODAY Sports

For much of the 2025 season, Mark Vientos has struggled to replicate the offensive spark he showed last postseason. But on Friday night in Kansas City, the 25-year-old reminded the Mets — and himself — of what he’s capable of when the moment is right.

With the Mets trailing 3–1 in the top of the eighth and the bases loaded, manager Carlos Mendoza stuck with Vientos against All-Star closer Carlos Estévez. The decision paid off in a big way. Vientos, locked in a 2-2 count after seeing three consecutive sliders, ripped a 107.7 mph double into the left-center gap — clearing the bases and giving the Mets a 4–3 lead they wouldn’t relinquish in an eventual 8–3 win.

“I got the opportunity twice, so it was good to redeem myself the second time and be able to do the job for the team,” Vientos told SNY’s Steve Gelbs and Ron Darling postgame. “I don’t care how bad I’m feeling at the plate, I want to be up in that situation every single time.”

“It was huge for us. It was huge for him, too,” Mendoza said after the game.

Vientos had entered the night mired in a 13-game RBI drought and missed an earlier opportunity to contribute. In the third inning, he struck out on three pitches with the bases loaded — slamming his bat into the ground in frustration. But redemption came just hours later, and Vientos didn’t let it slip away.

The double marked a turning point in a season that’s tested Vientos’ patience and confidence. Yet despite the slow start, he credited those around him for helping him stay focused.

“I’ve got a good group of people around me, kind of pushing for me, kind of keeping me motivated,” he said.

As Vientos stood at second base with his arms raised after the go-ahead hit, it wasn’t just a celebration of a big moment — it was a reminder that his bat can still change the course of a game.

And for a Mets team looking for answers in the second half, that spark couldn’t have come at a better time.

This article first appeared on Athlon Sports and was syndicated with permission.

More must-reads:

Customize Your Newsletter

Yardbarker +

Get the latest news and rumors, customized to your favorite sports and teams. Emailed daily. Always free!