The Mets came into Game 2 looking to even the series and got off to a strong start with a 2-0 lead in the second inning. With two outs and runners on, Francisco Lindor stepped up after already hitting a homer earlier. The Dodgers didn’t want to risk it, so they intentionally walked him to load the bases. That brought up Mark Vientos, and he took it personally. After a long at-bat filled with sliders and one high fastball, Dodgers pitcher Landon Knack stuck with the slider-heavy approach, trying to get Vientos to chase. Vientos stayed patient, spoiled pitches in the zone, laid off the bad ones, and worked the count full.
On the 3-2 pitch, the Dodgers finally went back to a fastball. It was a 95 mph heater down the middle, and Vientos crushed it. No doubt grand slam. The intentional walk backfired hard, turning a two-run lead into a 6-0 game. Knack’s reaction said it all as soon as it left the bat. Dodgers fans didn’t even get the consolation of catching the ball. Only Mendy out in the crowd looked excited. A bold call from Roberts that didn’t pay off, and now the Mets had full control of the game.