The Philadelphia Phillies triumphed over the New York Mets 7-2 in the opening game of Major League Baseball’s London Series at London Stadium.
The game turned in the fourth inning when the Phillies scored six runs, leading to the Mets’ starting pitcher Sean Manaea being pulled from the game.
Initially, the Mets were ahead 1-0, but Phillies first baseman Harper hit a solo home run while walking out to the Spice Girls’ “Wannabe,” celebrating with a knee slide.
Whit Merrifield then stole the show with a three-run homer, followed by singles from Edmundo Sosa and Kyle Schwarber, extending the lead to 6-1.
Mets manager Carlos Mendoza brought in reliever Sean Reid-Foley to replace Manaea, who prevented further scoring, but the Mets couldn’t mount a comeback.
This win marked the Phillies’ seventh victory in eight games, halting the Mets’ three-game winning streak.
This is the third MLB series in London, after the New York Yankees vs. Boston Red Sox in 2019 and the Chicago Cubs vs. St. Louis Cardinals in 2023.
The Mets were designated as the home team, with actor Matthew Broderick throwing the ceremonial first pitch.
The series continues on Sunday at West Ham’s London Stadium, with the Phillies designated as the home team.
