In Friday night’s most thrilling MLB game of the 2025 season to date, the Los Angeles Dodgers outlasted the New York Mets, 7–5, in a manic 13-inning battle at Citi Field. It wasn’t a game — it was an emotional rollercoaster, an endurance test, and a possible playoff preview.
The Star of the Night: Teoscar Hernández
The undisputed hero of the evening was Teoscar Hernández, whose bat remained sizzling even as the game ran deep into the morning hours. He plated two crucial runs in the early going, then provided the winning RBI double in the 13th inning before getting into scoring position himself on an insurance run SAC fly by Andy Pages.
Hernández is proving to be one of the Dodgers’ smartest offseason additions, consistently delivering in high-pressure moments with timely hits and a calm veteran presence that elevates the entire lineup.
“In tight games like this, you’ve got to stay locked in — every at-bat counts,” Hernández told reporters after the win.
Late-Game Drama: Mets Show Heart
The New York Mets refused to go quietly. Trailing 5–2 in the ninth inning, the Mets sparked a thrilling late-game surge that electrified the crowd and brought the game back to life.
Jeff McNeil jumpstarted the Mets’ comeback with a sharply hit triple down the right-field line, plating two crucial runs and shifting the energy squarely back toward New York.
Tyrone Taylor followed with a game-tying single.
Mets fans in Citi Field went wild — the comeback was a momentum swing. But that momentum was fleeting as the Mets were unable to cash in during the extra innings.
Dodgers vs. Mets Game Highlights:
Rain Delay Adds to the Chaos
The evening’s bedlam was added to by a 98-minute rain delay that interrupted both pitchers’ rotations. Dodgers starter Gavin Stone was forced to leave early, and manager Dave Roberts was forced to reach deep into his bullpen.
The Mets used nine pitchers on their own, wearing down their bullpen as the innings ticked on. That may have lasting consequences for the Mets’ next several games, especially with their current bullpen weariness.
Controversial Call Adds Fire
A heated moment unfolded in the seventh when Max Muncy was hit with an obstruction call, allowing the Mets to plate a run. Though replays showed only slight contact, the decision stood, sparking debate from both dugouts and fans alike.
For the Dodgers, it was infuriating. For the Mets, it was a blessing. But in a game as long and arduous as this one, such plays are unavoidable.
Standings Impact: Dodgers Remain Firm, Mets Fall
With this victory, the Dodgers are now 32–19, cementing their NL West division lead. Even with the late-game thriller, they showed again why they are the favorites to make the postseason.
The Mets fall to 30–21 and while the record remains strong, they have lost six of their last eight games. Manager Carlos Mendoza will have to get his team refocused quickly to prevent falling further behind the division lead.
SportSnip Analysis: What This Game Tells Us
This wasn’t merely a victory for the Dodgers — it was a message. They possess the depth, patience, and muscle to wear down any situation. Even without ace work on the mound, their offense — spearheaded by stars such as Hernández — is capable of winning games in the clutch.
For the Mets, the heart of the matter is present. The ninth-inning comeback was gritty, and the intensity was palpable. But bullpen game management and sustained execution in extra innings are issues.
This game is easily a glimpse into a potential October clash — and if so, count us in.
What’s Next?
The Dodgers and Mets will resume their series with Game 2 on Saturday, May 24 at 4:15 PM PDT. With both sides likely to make bullpen changes, look for more fireworks in the second course of this heavy-weight battle.
