The Mets sit as the benchmark in the wild-card hunt, a reminder of how the Reds’ push for the playoffs tightens the NL landscape. De La Cruz’s pace and Reds’ surge intensify the chase, with the Mets serving as the defining backdrop for late-season positioning.

Lindor’s leadership and production anchor the Mets’ middle of the order as the team pursues a postseason run. His clubhouse impact and consistent bat-to-ball ability underpin the Mets’ offense, making him a stable fantasy contributor even as the surrounding lineup experiences peaks and valleys.

Soto’s presence injects star power into the Mets’ lineup, with notable moments that echo his big-season resume as fans debate his fit within the Mets’ trajectory. His involvement in the scoring and on-base prowess complements the club’s late-season push, fueling fantasy interest in a high-ceiling, high-variance asset.

Peterson shoves eight innings, pounding the strike zone with efficiency and depth, allowing the Mets to ride an 8-1 cushion. His ability to work deep into the game matters as the Mets seek to stabilize a rotation amid a long stretch without an off-day, setting up a potential continuous rotation pattern.

Mets offense reawakens behind a pitching gem from Peterson, fueled by clutch hits from Nimmo and McNeil, with Alonso and Lindor anchoring the middle of the order. Soto mirrors the moment, creating a marquee storyline as the club builds momentum toward September and potential postseason play. The victory over Nationals solidifies a three-game win streak and re-ignites fan confidence, even as debate over bullpen and rotation depth continues.