Daniel Murphy went 2-for-4 with hit a triple and a go-ahead home run off Masahiro Tanaka on Friday night, as the New York Mets defeated the New York Yankees by a score of 5-1 at Citi Field.
“It was nice because of the way their starter can throw the ball,” Murphy said. “He’s as tough as they come. You really got to lock in on him. He chewed me up and spit me out a couple of times tonight, there’s no doubt about that. It’s really nice to start the series that way with a win.”
For Murphy, it was his 12th home run of the season, putting him just one shy of his career-high (13) set in 2013.
He admitted after the game that he had been scuffling at the plate of late and that he was still unhappy with his performance prior to hitting the home run. But in the end, the veteran infielder came through with a big hit when the team needed him.
“That’s what your veterans are supposed to, they’re supposed to step up,” Mets manager Terry Collins said. “Your star players, when you’re on these big stages, that’s when they come through.
Murphy, who is a free agent after this season, now leads all National League second basemen with 64 RBI, 33 doubles and a .431 slugging percentage.
He also holds the distinction of being the toughest player in the major leagues to strikeout, fanning just 34 times in 450 at-bats.
The 30-year old Murphy, who is earning $8 million this season, will likely command a three-year deal worth about $34 million this winter. The big question is will he get that deal from the Mets or are we seeing the final days of Murphy in Flushing?
While Murphy doesn’t excel at any position defensively, he has filled a much-needed role for the Mets this season, playing some first and third base in addition to his customary second base.
Murphy also brings a fiercely competitive drive and an infectious enthusiasm to the field and clubhouse that is difficult to put a price on but does have some intrinsic value that can’t be ignored. He has certainly become an integral part of the team’s chemistry and replacing his offense and intangibles may not be as easy as it seems.
