Philly Leader

Nick Castellanos played a crucial role in the Philadelphia Phillies' victory over the New York Mets in Game 2 of the National League Division Series. The game, held at Citizens Bank Park, ended with a 7-6 win for the Phillies, thanks to Castellanos' walk-off single that brought Trea Turner home from second base. This marked Castellanos' fifth walk-off hit of the year and his first in postseason play.

Reflecting on his performance, Castellanos shared a moment with his son Liam after the game. “Let’s go!” they shouted together. He expressed how these moments would be cherished memories when he is no longer playing baseball.

The game mirrored Castellanos’ season journey. Starting with a .194 batting average and only four home runs through mid-May, he improved significantly to finish with a .278 average and 19 home runs by the end of the regular season. His persistence was evident as he climbed up the Phillies’ lineup throughout the year.

During Game 2, the Phillies struggled initially but gained momentum when Bryce Harper hit a two-run homer in the sixth inning, reducing their deficit to 3-2. Castellanos followed this by hitting a solo home run to tie the game.

Phillies manager Rob Thomson praised Castellanos' determination: “I'm so happy for him because I know that there's been a lot of talk about chase and this and that,” Thomson said. “But he can hit.”

The Mets briefly regained the lead with Brandon Nimmo's homer in the seventh inning. However, Bryson Stott's timely hit allowed Harper and Castellanos to score, giving Philadelphia a 6-4 advantage before Mark Vientos tied it again for New York in the ninth inning.

In a tense bottom of the ninth, Mets pitcher Tylor Megill walked Turner and Harper before facing Castellanos. Despite falling behind early in his at-bat, Castellanos capitalized on Megill's mistake slider to secure Philadelphia’s victory.

Matt Strahm commented on Castellanos’ resilience: “Unfazed,” Strahm said about Castellanos’ ability to turn around his season performance.

Bryson Stott also acknowledged Castellanos’ contributions: “He’s Nick Castellanos,” Stott stated. “He’s a professional hitter... It feels like every walk-off hit is Nick.”

Castellanos’ consistent clutch performances have tied him for third-most walk-offs in a single season since 1974, highlighting his significant impact on both regular-season and postseason games.