Bo Bichette has been searching for rhythm all season. Friday night, he found it in a way that carved his name into the Mets’ record book — twice.
In New York’s 7–5 win over the Atlanta Braves at Citi Field, Bichette launched a two-run homer in the first inning and followed it with a grand slam in the second off Spencer Strider. That gave him six RBIs before the third inning even started, and it tied a career high he’d set earlier this year.
According to MLB researcher Sarah Langs, Bichette is the first player in Mets history to hit two home runs through the first two innings of a game multiple times in his career — let alone in the same season. He also pulled off the feat on May 19. No one in the franchise’s 64-year history had ever done it even once.
The outburst gave New York a 7–2 lead, and though Atlanta clawed back, relievers Cionel Perez and Devin Williams shut the door to secure the series-opening victory.
A much-needed spark for a struggling lineup
Bichette entered Friday batting just .232 through 69 games, well below his career line of .286. For a Mets offense that has lacked consistency beyond Francisco Lindor and Pete Alonso, the power display was a welcome jolt.
Manager Carlos Mendoza has publicly backed the veteran infielder, and Friday’s performance gave him ammunition for that belief. The six RBIs matched a career best, and the grand slam was the third of Bichette’s career.
What this means going forward
The real question now is whether this becomes a turning point. Bichette hasn’t put together an extended hot streak since arriving from Toronto in last offseason’s blockbuster trade. His season numbers still need significant repair, but the Mets saw firsthand how quickly his bat can change the complexion of a game.
The Braves will have to adjust in the series’ remaining games. If Bichette can harness this kind of production more consistently, New York’s lineup suddenly looks deeper — and the franchise record book might need another update.
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