After the viral collision between Mets starter Jonah Tong and Phillies 3B Bryson Stott during the series finale on Sunday, fans shifted their focus to blaming Mets 1B Mark Vientos for a misdirected throw to first base. The incident occurred in the first inning, with the Phillies up 2-0, Stott at the plate on a full count, and a runner on first.
Stott hit a slow grounder. Vientos fielded it and threw to Tong, who sprinted to first with Stott. Vientos' throw was slightly behind Tong, but the young pitcher reached the bag first and recorded the out. In the process, Stott collided with Tong, who was still moving forward. Tong fell, got up, and limped off after the final out.
Watch the video here:
Fans quickly shared their reactions to the game's viral moment across social media.
"Why is Vientos still employed," one fan commented.
Vientos finished 1-for-4 as the Mets lost 7-2, failing to capitalize on yet another series-winning opportunity this season. Tong had a rough start on the mound, giving up four earned runs on five hits, walking four and striking out five batters in 4.2 IP to record his second loss of the campaign.
Speaking to the media after the game, Tong was asked multiple questions about his viral collision with Stott. One journalist asked the 23-year-old whether he realized he had been stepped on during the enthralling play, to which Tong gave a hilarious reply.
"I didn't realize he stepped on me until someone said it afterwards. Maybe I will feel it tomorrow but I feel great right now," Tong said.
New York split the four-game series with the Phillies 2-2 and will now head on the road for their final two series of the season, against the Rangers in Texas and the Nationals in Washington.
Tong is expected to make his final start of the season in the series finale against the Nats on Sunday.
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