New York Mets utility man Jeff McNeil is never going to lead the league in exit velocity or home runs. He may never contend for another batting title, either. Instead, in his age-33 season, McNeil is redefining himself and saving his career.

Left fielder Brandon Nimmo responded with a lead-off double. He was followed by right fielder Juan Soto, who was looking to exact revenge on his former team after an abysmal first go-around where he went 1-for-10 in the Bronx — and he did.

The Mets had scratched, using a makeshift pitching alignment, to remain in this game on Friday and there was McNeil to detonate the last needed fireworks barrage.