Jose Reyes becomes champion as New York Mets defeat Cincinnati Reds 3-0 – MLB Update
The New York Mets gave Jose Reyes a fitting farewell, overcoming a dominant Cincinnati Reds 3-0 on Wednesday, September 28 to avoid a three-game series sweep at Citi Field in New York.
Playing primarily for personal honour, Reyes produced a bunt single in the first inning to bring an end to what has been a memorable career with the Mets. Although not the most appropriate way to bid farewell to the fans, it was effective enough to see him
become the first player in the ballclub to win a batting title.
Expressing his thoughts after being crowned the champion, Reyes said, "I'm humbled and honoured. It means so much to my family and my country, the Dominican Republic. I have been through a lot over the past few years, so this really means a lot to me."
The fans, however, were not content on the approach used by Reyes. The captivating short-stop was replaced by a pinch runner after the bunt single and then made no appearance on the plate. The 28,816 people present at the ballpark wanted to see him for at
least a few more at-bats or maybe a powerful hit into the stands to bid his fans a well-brought-up farewell.
When asked to comment on the reaction of fans, Reyes stated that he was under a lot of pressure and the fans should be feeling happy to see him become the first player in the ballclub to win the title.
Reyes, however, did not close the doors for his return to the Mets. “Please stay, Jose!” chants by the fans were responded with a tip of the hat and then a final wave before Reyes vanished into the dugout.
Mets’ offence and defence was exemplary and manager Terry Collins could not agree more. Miguel Batista pitched a two-hit complete game shut-out to see the Mets finish an ordinary season on a high. Mike Baxter smashed a two-run homer in the sixth inning,
after Willie Harris had given the home-side a one-run advantage in the fourth inning.
Tags: