Pete Alonso etched his name in the Mets’ history books with HR No. 253, surpassing Darryl Strawberry for the franchise lead. The 387-foot blast in the third inning off Spencer Strider at Citi Field pushed New York ahead 5-1 as the Mets fought through a seven-game skid. The moment sparked a curtain call and showcased Alonso’s elite power at the top of a lineup capable of fueling fantasy managers with big counting stats.

Alonso’s breakout season continues with 27 homers and 95 RBIs, and his two-year, $54 million deal with a player opt-out keeps fantasy intrigue high. His chase now shifts toward the Mets’ RBI record, a reminder that his ceiling extends beyond raw power. For fantasy rosters, Alonso remains a cornerstone at first base, offering consistent power, run production, and an upside-rich carry through the season, especially with surrounding lineup protection from Nimmo and McNeil.

Mets baserunning has become the season’s unexpected driver. A 90.3% stolen-base rate tops baseball, and 34 consecutive steals is the longest active streak. Francisco Lindor and Juan Soto own 18 steals apiece, with Soto breaking his career high by six. Soto has thrived under baserunning coach Antoan Richardson, going 18-for-19 on baserunning with 1 baserunning run created, per Statcast, while his home-to-first times have improved even as sprint speed holds. The on-base game remains Soto’s weapon—he leads the league in walks (89) and sits at a .383 on-base percentage, ninth-best in MLB. Yet the Mets’ run-production has lagged; Lindor, McNeil, Alvarez, and Marte have carried the offense in the gaps, and Soto’s iconic ninth-inning grab of momentum helped break up a no-hitter last week. Richardson’s preparation and communication are lauded, and Soto credits him for comfort and trust in the aggressive baserunning approach. While the offense has stalled at times, the running game has become a genuine weapon for the Mets, a spark that could translate into fantasy value as the team leans further into speed and pressure on the bases.

As the Mets chase runs, Soto’s baserunning becomes more than a novelty—it's a growth driver for fantasy managers. The pairing of Soto’s on-base prowess with his baserunning success creates more scoring opportunities and stolen-base upside, while Lindor’s speed maintains dual-threat potential. The coaching influence from Richardson suggests other Mets could see elevated baserunning opportunities, particularly if matchups and game state favor aggression. In short, the running game is the one element the Mets can rely on as they navigate a rough stretch, and that has real fantasy implications for lineup construction and daily-transaction decisions.

Milwaukee roars back from a 5-0 hole to walk it off in New York, extending their streak to nine as Isaac Collins crushed a 2-2 Diaz fastball 363 feet to right for his eighth homer. The Brewers ripped off a late surge powered by Will Contreras, who went deep twice (his 12th and 13th on the season) to spark the rally, and Joey Ortiz capped the eighth with a two-out RBI single off Pete Alonso’s glove to tie the game. New York jumped ahead early, sending six across in the first five frames behind Soto, McNeil, Baty, and Mauricio, but Diaz coughed up the lead in the ninth as Collins delivered the walk-off with Zimmerman-like poise. The Mets’ slide stretched to seven, widening their gap in the NL East, while Milwaukee kept rolling on their magic run and climbed within striking distance of the division lead.

Luisangel Acuña has returned to the New York Mets after a productive stint in Triple-A, where he showcased his versatility and speed. During his time with Syracuse, Acuña recorded a batting average of .289 with four RBIs and demonstrated improved contact at the plate. Mets manager Carlos Mendoza emphasized the importance of Acuña's role, especially with injuries affecting the roster. Acuña's experience in center field offers the Mets added depth as they navigate a critical part of the season.

While Acuña was a spark for the Mets earlier in the season, finding consistent playing time has been challenging due to a crowded roster featuring Brett Baty, Mark Vientos, and the recently called-up Ronny Mauricio. The Mets are now strategizing around these players, looking to maximize their contributions as they aim for postseason contention.

The New York Mets are exploring trade options for second base help ahead of the trade deadline, particularly with Luisangel Acuña back in the minors. Jeff McNeil has been filling in at second base, but the Mets may be better served utilizing his bat in the outfield, especially given Tyrone Taylor's struggles at the plate. Potential targets for the Mets include versatile players who can contribute both in the infield and outfield.

One name that has emerged as a strong candidate is Willi Castro from the Minnesota Twins. Castro has shown flexibility, playing multiple positions, including third base, where the Mets have had difficulties. His offensive numbers are appealing, with a .269 batting average and decent power this season. His switch-hitting ability also offers the Mets lineup balance, making him a suitable target as they look for a rental option who can enhance their roster for a playoff push.