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Home at last: Mets return to Citi Field from 2-week odyssey and prep for pivotal Game 3 vs Phillies

New York Mets' Mark Vientos celebrates after hitting a two-run home run against Philadelphia Phillies pitcher Cristopher Sánchez during the third inning of Game 2 of a baseball NL Division Series, Sunday, Oct. 6, 2024, in Philadelphia. (AP Photo/Chris Szagola) New York Mets' Mark Vientos celebrates after hitting a two-run home run against Philadelphia Phillies pitcher Cristopher Sánchez during the third inning of Game 2 of a baseball NL Division Series, Sunday, Oct. 6, 2024, in Philadelphia. (AP Photo/Chris Szagola)

By MIKE FITZPATRICK / AP Baseball Writer October 7, 2024 5 min read

NEW YORK (AP) — It was a two-week odyssey for the New York Mets that would’ve put even Homer on pins and needles at the edge of his seat.

Big Apple to Atlanta. Consecutive rainouts caused by Hurricane Helene. Fly north to Milwaukee for the weekend.

Back down to Atlanta for one day and a makeup doubleheader. Back up to Milwaukee for the Wild Card Series. East to Philadelphia for two more playoff games.

And now — finally — back home at Citi Field for a pivotal Game 3 against the rival Phillies on Tuesday in a best-of-five NL Division Series that’s tied 1-all.

“Feels like we’ve been on the road forever,” Mets manager Carlos Mendoza said.