Mets' Smith hits go-ahead HR in 1st game since tearful plea

NEW YORK (AP) — Dominic Smith followed powerful words with a powerful swing — and nothing could have prompted bigger cheers from the New York Mets.

“It's an honor to be around him,” teammate Michael Wacha said.

Smith hit the go-ahead home run in his first game since tearfully pleading for help combating racial inequality, Pete Alonso also connected and the New York Mets beat the crosstown Yankees 6-4 in the opener of a doubleheader Friday.

Smith, a 25-year-old Black man, wept Wednesday night reflecting on a recent shooting by police of a Black man in Wisconsin. Smith and the Mets were all smiles after his decisive solo shot against Chad Green in the sixth inning on what was Jackie Robinson Day around the majors.

Alonso pounded on the dugout railing and the Mets bench went wild while Smith rounded the bases at Yankee Stadium. Inspired by the emotional comments from the usually upbeat Smith, the Mets staged a walkout protest against racial injustice with the Miami Marlins on Thursday night.

“It’s pretty special, for sure,” Mets manager Luis Rojas said, praising Smith's on-field focus amid his off-field efforts.

Smith was not made available to reporters between games, even with the nightcap delayed by forecasted rain.

“Just a great human being,” said Wacha, who is in his first season as Smith’s teammate. “Very passionate, just loves this game more than anything. One of the best teammates I’ve been around. It’s been an honor to lace them up with him.

Smith’s drive followed a tying three-run shot by the struggling Alonso, and Jake Marisnick also connected in the inning against Green (2-2), who had been the Yankees' most reliable reliever this season.

“I think he got a couple pitches where he wanted, they just put better swings on it,”...

source https://www.chron.com/sports/article/Mets-Smith-hits-go-ahead-HR-in-1st-game-since-15523144.php