Brett Baty makes big claim about Mets' winning ways after trade-deadline fire sale

Utility man Brett Baty hit a grand slam to help the last-place New York Mets (53-67) earn an 8-5 win at the first-place Atlanta Braves (71-48) on Monday evening. 

That victory improved the Mets to 6-1 since the Aug. 3 MLB trade deadline, which featured New York completing an expected fire sale. Following the win, Baty touched upon how a Mets team that seemingly has nothing to play for is all of a sudden possibly the hottest club in the big leagues. 

Mets are "rallying around each other" after trade deadline fire sale

"The boys are swinging some hot bats, the bullpen is doing their thing and the starters are always going to do their thing," Baty said, per John Flanigan of SNY. "It’s been fun. We’re rallying around each other, and we’ve just been playing some really good ball."

Mets president of baseball operations David Stearns parted ways with relief pitchers Luke Weaver, Huascar Brazoban, Brooks Raley and A.J. Minter ahead of the trade deadline. On Monday, the Mets placed closer Devin Williams on the injured list due to a strained right shoulder. Nevertheless, those on the active Mets roster aren't punting on the remainder of the campaign. 

"It’s been next man up," interim manager Andy Green said about the Mets' unexpected hot streak. 

Meanwhile, Mets starter Christian Scott noted that New York's relievers have "really done an unbelievable job" as of late. 

Kodai Senga opens up about career first

While right-hander Kodai Senga has lost his full-time spot in the Mets' starting rotation, he is being given an opportunity to serve in a high-leverage relief role. On Monday, he notched his first career MLB save.

"I think it’s a great environment for myself," Senga said via an interpreter about his new role, per Flanigan. "I will continue to go out there and do my best no matter what situation I am put in." 

Senga presumably could become the Mets' first-choice closer until Williams can return. Green mentioned that he thought Senga was "great" as the 33-year-old struck out sluggers Matt Olson and Michael Harris II in the ninth inning. The three-game series between the Mets and Braves will continue in Atlanta on Tuesday night.