What Was the Phillies Mets Game with the Unassisted Triple Play?

The Phillies Mets Game on August 23, 2009, is remembered for Eric Bruntlett’s unassisted triple play to end the game, securing a 9-7 victory for the Philadelphia Phillies. If you’re encountering issues with your Polar device while reliving this iconic game, polarservicecenter.net offers comprehensive support and resources to ensure your fitness tracking stays on point. Explore our website for troubleshooting guides, warranty information, and expert assistance to keep your Polar products in top condition, enhancing your experience with wearables and activity trackers.

1. What Made the Phillies Mets Game on August 23, 2009 So Unique?

The Phillies Mets game on August 23, 2009, was unique because it ended with an unassisted triple play by Phillies second baseman Eric Bruntlett, only the second time in major league history a game concluded in this fashion. The game was filled with unusual events from the start, including a six-run first inning by the Phillies and strange plays that kept fans on the edge of their seats.

Expanding on why this game was so memorable:

Unassisted Triple Play: Bruntlett’s unassisted triple play was the 15th in major league history and only the second to end a game. This rare feat instantly etched the game into baseball lore.
Early Phillies Dominance: The Phillies jumped out to an early 6-0 lead in the first inning, highlighted by three-run home runs from Jayson Werth and Carlos Ruiz. This offensive explosion set an unusual tone for the game.
Pedro Martinez’s Return to New York: The game marked Pedro Martinez’s first appearance in New York after playing for the Mets for four seasons. He received a warm welcome from Mets fans, adding a sentimental element to the contest.
Strange Plays: The game featured several bizarre plays, including Ángel Pagán hitting an inside-the-park home run after his line drive got stuck under the outfield wall padding. These oddities contributed to the game’s overall strangeness.
Manager Ejection: Phillies manager Charlie Manuel was ejected from the game after arguing a reversed call, further adding to the drama and excitement.
Brad Lidge’s Struggles: Phillies closer Brad Lidge, who had a perfect save record in the previous season, struggled in this game, making the ending even more suspenseful.
Bruntlett’s Redemption: Eric Bruntlett, who had a low batting average for the season, had a significant impact on the game, both offensively and defensively, culminating in his historic triple play.
Competitive Spirit: Despite the Phillies’ early lead, the Mets fought back, narrowing the score and creating a tense atmosphere in the final innings, enhancing the game’s excitement.

2. Who Was Eric Bruntlett and What Was His Role in That Game?

Eric Bruntlett was the Phillies’ second baseman who made the unassisted triple play to end the game. Bruntlett, a reserve infielder, started the game in place of regular second baseman Chase Utley and had a significant impact both offensively and defensively.

Background: Eric Bruntlett was a utility player known for his versatility and clutch performances off the bench. He was acquired by the Phillies in a trade with the Houston Astros in 2007.
Role in the Game: Bruntlett started at second base in place of Chase Utley. He went 3-for-4 at the plate and made a critical defensive play in the ninth inning.
Unassisted Triple Play: With the Mets rallying in the bottom of the ninth, Bruntlett caught a line drive, stepped on second base to force out one runner, and tagged another runner to complete the unassisted triple play, ending the game.
Impact: Bruntlett’s unassisted triple play was a game-saving play that secured a 9-7 victory for the Phillies. It was a defining moment in his career and etched his name into baseball history.
Previous Contributions: In the 2008 World Series, Bruntlett had several key moments, including a pinch-hit home run in Game Two, a walk-off winning run in Game Three, and scoring the Series-deciding run in Game Five.
Post-Triple Play: After the triple play, Bruntlett continued to be used primarily as a pinch-hitter or pinch-runner. His final major-league moment was scoring the tying run in the National League Championship Series against the Los Angeles Dodgers.

3. What Exactly Is an Unassisted Triple Play and How Rare Is It?

An unassisted triple play occurs when a defensive player makes all three outs in a single play without the assistance of teammates. It is one of the rarest plays in baseball.

Definition: An unassisted triple play happens when a player catches a batted ball, then tags or forces out two other runners without another player touching the ball.
Rarity: As of 2022, there have been only 15 unassisted triple plays officially recognized in Major League Baseball history. Some historians believe there may have been one additional unassisted triple play in 1878.
Bruntlett’s Triple Play: Bruntlett’s unassisted triple play was only the second one to end a game.
How It Happened: Bruntlett caught a line drive, stepped on second base to force out a runner, and then tagged another runner between first and second to complete the play.
Historical Context: The first player to end a game with an unassisted triple play was Johnny Neun in 1927. Asdrubal Cabrera turned one for Cleveland a season earlier than Bruntlett.

4. What Was Pedro Martinez’s Role in the Phillies Mets Game?

Pedro Martinez, a future Hall of Famer, started the game for the Phillies. It was his third start for the team after being signed as a free agent the previous month, and his first appearance back in New York after pitching for the Mets for four seasons.

Background: Pedro Martinez was a renowned pitcher with an illustrious career, including stints with the Los Angeles Dodgers, Montreal Expos, Boston Red Sox, and the New York Mets.
Signing with the Phillies: The Phillies signed Martinez to bolster their pitching staff, which was dealing with injuries.
Warm Welcome: Martinez received a warm reception from Mets fans as he stepped into the batter’s box in the first inning.
Early Exit for Peréz: Mets starter Oliver Peréz was pulled from the game after throwing three consecutive balls to Martinez, which Martinez described as “weird.”
Performance: Martinez pitched six innings, allowing four runs on seven hits and one walk.
Contribution: Martinez also drove in a run with a bases-loaded single in the third inning, contributing to the Phillies’ offensive effort.

5. What Other Unusual Plays Happened in That Phillies Mets Game?

Besides the unassisted triple play, the Phillies Mets game featured several other unusual plays, making it a memorable and strange contest.

Ángel Pagán’s Inside-the-Park Home Run: In the bottom of the first inning, Ángel Pagán hit a line drive that got stuck under the outfield wall’s padding. Thinking the ball would be ruled dead, Shane Victorino raised his arms. However, the umpire ruled the ball in play, and Pagán scored an inside-the-park home run.
Oliver Peréz’s Early Exit: Mets starter Oliver Peréz was pulled after throwing only three pitches to Pedro Martinez in the first inning. This was due to Peréz throwing three consecutive balls, leading to a quick hook by the Mets’ manager.
Charlie Manuel’s Ejection: Phillies manager Charlie Manuel was ejected from the game after arguing a reversed call on a play where Eric Bruntlett was initially ruled to have tripled.
Matt Stairs’ Base Running: Pinch-hitter Matt Stairs, at 41 years old, reached base on a walk and advanced around the bases due to two wild pitches, highlighting the game’s quirky moments.
Ryan Howard’s Error: Ryan Howard made a three-base error, allowing Ángel Pagán to reach third base, contributing to the Mets’ scoring opportunities.
Brad Lidge’s Struggles: Brad Lidge, who had a perfect save record the previous season, struggled in this game, allowing runs and making the ninth inning more dramatic.

6. How Did the Phillies’ and Mets’ Seasons Turn Out in 2009?

In 2009, the Philadelphia Phillies won the National League East Division and made it to the World Series, while the New York Mets did not make the playoffs.

Philadelphia Phillies:
- Regular Season: The Phillies finished the regular season with a record of 93-69, winning the National League East Division.
- Postseason: They defeated the Colorado Rockies in the National League Division Series and the Los Angeles Dodgers in the National League Championship Series to advance to the World Series.
- World Series: The Phillies lost to the New York Yankees in the World Series, failing to repeat as champions.
New York Mets:
- Regular Season: The Mets finished the regular season with a record of 70-92, missing the playoffs.
- Overall: The 2009 season was disappointing for the Mets, who struggled with injuries and inconsistent performance.

7. What Impact Did This Game Have on Eric Bruntlett’s Career?

The Phillies Mets game and his unassisted triple play became the defining moment of Eric Bruntlett’s career, ensuring he would be remembered despite his relatively modest overall statistics.

Career Highlight: The unassisted triple play was the most memorable moment of Bruntlett’s seven-year MLB career.
Recognition: Despite a career batting average of .231 and 0.8 career Wins Above Replacement (WAR), Bruntlett’s triple play ensured he would be remembered by baseball fans.
Late-Career Role: Bruntlett continued to be used primarily as a pinch-hitter or pinch-runner after the game.
Postseason Contributions: He played a role in the Phillies’ postseason run, scoring the tying run in Game Four of the National League Championship Series against the Los Angeles Dodgers.
Final Appearance: Bruntlett’s final major-league appearance was as a pinch-hitter in Game Three of the 2009 World Series.
Lasting Legacy: Bruntlett’s unassisted triple play remains a celebrated moment in Phillies history and a testament to his ability to make an impact despite limited playing time.

8. Can You Describe the Atmosphere at Citi Field During That Game?

The atmosphere at Citi Field during the Phillies Mets game was a mix of excitement, anticipation, and eventual disbelief, as the game unfolded with numerous unusual plays and a dramatic ending.

Early Excitement: The game began with high energy as the Phillies jumped to an early 6-0 lead, stunning the Mets fans.
Pedro Martinez’s Return: Pedro Martinez’s first appearance back in New York after pitching for the Mets added a sentimental element, and he received a warm welcome from the crowd.
Strange Plays: The unusual plays, such as Ángel Pagán’s inside-the-park home run and the early exit of Oliver Peréz, kept the fans engaged and often bewildered.
Mets’ Comeback: As the Mets began to chip away at the Phillies’ lead, the atmosphere became more tense and hopeful for the home crowd.
Ninth-Inning Drama: The ninth inning was filled with drama as the Mets rallied, bringing the potential winning run to the plate. The atmosphere was electric with anticipation.
Unassisted Triple Play: When Eric Bruntlett completed the unassisted triple play, the stadium was stunned into silence, followed by a mix of disbelief and disappointment from the Mets fans.
Overall: The atmosphere at Citi Field was a rollercoaster of emotions, reflecting the game’s many twists and turns.

9. What Were the Key Moments Leading Up to the Unassisted Triple Play?

Several key moments led up to Eric Bruntlett’s unassisted triple play in the ninth inning, contributing to the dramatic finish of the Phillies Mets game.

Phillies’ Early Lead: The Phillies jumped out to a 6-0 lead in the first inning, setting a high-scoring tone for the game.
Mets’ Comeback Efforts: The Mets responded with runs throughout the game, gradually narrowing the Phillies’ lead and keeping the game competitive.
Brad Lidge’s Struggles: Phillies closer Brad Lidge, who had been dominant in the previous season, struggled in this game, allowing the Mets to score and putting pressure on the defense.
Ángel Pagán Reaching Third: Pagán led off the ninth with a hard groundball that resulted in a three-base error by Ryan Howard, putting him in scoring position.
Luis Castillo’s Grounder: Luis Castillo hit a grounder that Bruntlett couldn’t handle cleanly, allowing Pagán to score and bringing the Mets within two runs.
Daniel Murphy’s Hit: Daniel Murphy followed with a hit that put runners on first and second, setting the stage for the potential game-winning rally.
Runners on the Move: With the count 2-and-2, the Mets initiated a steal, with Castillo heading to third and Murphy to second, creating a high-pressure situation.

10. How Did This Game Reflect the Phillies’ 2009 Season?

The Phillies Mets game, with its mix of offensive firepower, pitching challenges, and dramatic defensive plays, reflected many aspects of the Phillies’ 2009 season.

Offensive Power: The Phillies’ early offensive outburst, with home runs from Jayson Werth and Carlos Ruiz, was indicative of their strong offense throughout the season.
Pitching Inconsistencies: Pedro Martinez’s solid but not dominant start, along with Brad Lidge’s struggles in the ninth inning, mirrored the team’s pitching inconsistencies during the year.
Clutch Performances: Eric Bruntlett’s unexpected heroics, both at the plate and in the field, highlighted the team’s ability to find contributions from various players.
Resilience: The Mets’ comeback efforts and the Phillies’ ability to hold on for the win demonstrated the team’s resilience and determination.
Postseason Drive: The game’s intensity and dramatic finish foreshadowed the Phillies’ postseason drive, where they ultimately reached the World Series.
Overall: The game encapsulated the Phillies’ strengths and weaknesses, showcasing their offensive potential, pitching challenges, and ability to come through in critical moments.

Navigating the complexities of baseball history can be as challenging as maintaining your fitness routine. At polarservicecenter.net, we understand the importance of reliable support. If you encounter any issues with your Polar devices, our website offers detailed troubleshooting guides, warranty information, and access to expert assistance. Keep your fitness journey on track with the support you deserve.

11. What Were the Reactions of the Players and Managers After the Game?

The reactions of players and managers after the Phillies Mets game were a mix of amazement, relief, and frustration, reflecting the game’s dramatic and unusual nature.

Eric Bruntlett (Phillies Second Baseman): Bruntlett described the game as “strange” in an interview, acknowledging the unusual series of events that led to his game-ending unassisted triple play.
Pedro Martinez (Phillies Starting Pitcher): Martinez commented on the oddity of Mets starter Oliver Peréz being pulled after throwing only three pitches to him, calling it “weird.”
Charlie Manuel (Phillies Manager): Manuel was ejected from the game after arguing the reversed call on Bruntlett’s initially ruled triple. He was understandably frustrated with the call but ultimately acknowledged that the correct decision was made.
Brad Lidge (Phillies Closer): Lidge, who had struggled in the game, expressed relief that Bruntlett’s triple play secured the win despite his difficulties on the mound.
Jerry Manuel (Mets Manager): Manuel argued the call on Bruntlett’s hit in the top of the ninth, which was initially ruled a triple but later changed to a catch. He was likely frustrated with the outcome of the game and the series of unfortunate events that contributed to the loss.
Shane Victorino (Phillies Center Fielder): Victorino explained his confusion on the play where Ángel Pagán hit an inside-the-park home run, noting that he was unsure whether the ball was in play.

12. What Is the Significance of This Game in Phillies History?

The Phillies Mets game on August 23, 2009, holds a significant place in Phillies history due to its dramatic ending and the rarity of the unassisted triple play.

Memorable Moment: The game is remembered as one of the most unique and exciting contests in Phillies history.
Bruntlett’s Legacy: Eric Bruntlett’s unassisted triple play is a defining moment in Phillies lore, solidifying his place in team history despite his limited playing time.
2009 Season Highlight: The game served as a highlight of the Phillies’ 2009 season, during which they won the National League East Division and made it to the World Series.
Team Chemistry: The game exemplified the team’s resilience and ability to come through in critical situations, reflecting the strong team chemistry that characterized the 2009 Phillies.
Fan Favorite: The unassisted triple play has become a favorite memory for Phillies fans, often recounted and celebrated.
Part of a Championship Era: The game is associated with the Phillies’ successful run in the late 2000s, which included a World Series title in 2008 and multiple playoff appearances.

13. How Often Do the Phillies and Mets Play Each Other?

The Phillies and Mets play each other multiple times each season as they are both members of the National League East Division.

Division Rivals: As division rivals, the Phillies and Mets typically play each other 13 to 19 times per season.
Regular Season Matchups: These games are spread throughout the regular season and are crucial for both teams as they compete for the division title and playoff spots.
Competitive History: The Phillies and Mets have a long-standing rivalry, with their games often drawing significant attention from fans.
2009 Season: In 2009, the Phillies won the season series against the Mets, which contributed to their division-winning season.
Scheduling: The exact number of games between the two teams can vary slightly from year to year due to changes in the MLB schedule.

14. What Were Brad Lidge’s Statistics Like Before and After This Game?

Brad Lidge had a dominant season in 2008, but his performance declined in 2009, with the Phillies Mets game being a notable example of his struggles.

2008 Season:
- Saves: Lidge was a perfect 41-for-41 in save opportunities during the regular season.
- Postseason: He was 7-for-7 in save opportunities during the postseason, including the Phillies’ World Series-clinching win.
- Overall: Lidge was considered one of the most reliable closers in baseball.
2009 Season:
- Blown Saves: Before the August 23 game against the Mets, Lidge had eight blown saves in 32 opportunities.
- Struggles: Lidge’s performance was inconsistent, and he faced criticism for his inability to replicate his 2008 success.
- Post-Game Performance: After the game, Lidge continued to struggle at times, although he remained the Phillies’ closer.
- Overall: Lidge’s 2009 season was a significant departure from his dominant 2008 performance, and he finished the year with a higher ERA and fewer saves.

15. What Other Notable Games Have Occurred Between the Phillies and Mets?

The Phillies and Mets have a long history of memorable games, marked by intense competition and dramatic moments.

Rivalry History: The Phillies and Mets have been division rivals for many years, leading to numerous high-stakes matchups.
Playoff Series: In 2006, the Mets defeated the Phillies in the National League Division Series, adding to the rivalry’s intensity.
Regular Season Clashes: Many regular-season games between the two teams have had significant implications for the division race and playoff contention.
Individual Performances: Numerous individual players have had standout performances in Phillies Mets games, further adding to the rivalry’s lore.
Walk-Off Wins: Both teams have had their share of dramatic walk-off wins against each other, creating unforgettable moments for fans.
Close Games: Many games between the Phillies and Mets are decided by one or two runs, adding to the tension and excitement.

Experiencing technical difficulties with your Polar device can be as frustrating as watching your team lose a close game. That’s why polarservicecenter.net is dedicated to providing reliable and comprehensive support for all your Polar products. Whether you need help troubleshooting an issue, understanding your warranty, or finding a local service center, we’re here to ensure you stay on top of your fitness goals.

16. How Did the Media Cover the Phillies Mets Game and Bruntlett’s Triple Play?

The media extensively covered the Phillies Mets game and Eric Bruntlett’s unassisted triple play, highlighting the rarity and significance of the event.

Newspaper Coverage: Major newspapers, such as The New York Times and Philadelphia Inquirer, featured articles on the game, emphasizing Bruntlett’s triple play and the unusual circumstances surrounding it.
Sports Networks: ESPN and other sports networks broadcasted highlights of the game and provided in-depth analysis of the triple play and its impact.
Online Articles: Numerous online sports websites and blogs published articles and videos about the game, further amplifying its reach.
Social Media: Social media platforms were abuzz with discussions and reactions to the triple play, with fans sharing their excitement and amazement.
Player Interviews: Media outlets conducted interviews with players and managers to gather their perspectives on the game and the historic play.
Highlight Reels: Bruntlett’s unassisted triple play was featured in highlight reels and sports documentaries, ensuring its lasting legacy.
Retrospective Articles: Years later, retrospective articles and features continue to commemorate the game and Bruntlett’s remarkable achievement.

17. What Was Charlie Manuel’s Managerial Style and How Did It Influence the Phillies?

Charlie Manuel’s managerial style, characterized by a player-friendly approach and a focus on offensive production, significantly influenced the Phillies during his tenure.

Player-Friendly Approach: Manuel was known for his ability to connect with players and create a positive clubhouse environment.
Offensive Focus: His managerial style emphasized offensive production, and he was known for his confidence in his hitters.
Trust in Veterans: Manuel showed trust in veteran players, allowing them to play key roles and provide leadership on the team.
Calm Demeanor: Despite his occasional outbursts, Manuel generally maintained a calm and steady demeanor, which helped to keep the team focused.
Influence on Success: Manuel’s managerial style played a significant role in the Phillies’ success during the late 2000s, including their World Series championship in 2008.
Impact on Players: Many players have praised Manuel for his positive influence on their careers, noting his ability to instill confidence and create a winning atmosphere.
Overall: Charlie Manuel’s managerial style was instrumental in shaping the Phillies into a successful and competitive team.

18. How Did the Phillies Acquire Eric Bruntlett and What Was His Role Before This Game?

The Phillies acquired Eric Bruntlett in a trade with the Houston Astros in November 2007, and he primarily served as a reserve infielder and utility player before the game.

Trade Details: The Phillies traded three players, including Michael Bourn, to the Astros in exchange for Bruntlett and closer Brad Lidge.
Reserve Infielder: Before the game, Bruntlett was primarily used as a reserve infielder, providing depth at multiple positions.
Utility Player: He was known for his versatility and ability to play various positions, including second base, shortstop, and outfield.
Pinch-Hitting and Pinch-Running: Bruntlett was often used as a pinch-hitter or pinch-runner, providing speed and a valuable bat off the bench.
2008 World Series Contributions: Bruntlett had several key moments in the 2008 World Series, including a pinch-hit home run and scoring the Series-deciding run.
Limited Starts: Prior to the August 23 game, Bruntlett had only started four games at second base during the season.
Overall: Bruntlett’s role before the game was that of a valuable utility player who could contribute in various ways.

19. What Were the Attendance Numbers for That Phillies Mets Game and the Season?

The attendance for the Phillies Mets game on August 23, 2009, was 43,657, and the New York Mets averaged 40,474 per game in attendance for the 2009 season.

Game Attendance: The game drew a large crowd of 43,657 fans to Citi Field, reflecting the rivalry between the two teams and the excitement surrounding the game.
Mets’ Season Attendance: The New York Mets averaged 40,474 in attendance per game in the 2009 season. The team had a total attendance of 3,278,697.
Phillies’ Attendance: The Phillies had a total attendance of 3,617,229 for the 2009 season.
Significance: The strong attendance numbers for both teams reflected the popularity of baseball in the New York and Philadelphia markets.
Fan Support: The high attendance demonstrated the strong fan support for both the Phillies and Mets, even though the Mets were having a disappointing season.

20. How Did the Phillies’ World Series Appearance in 2009 Compare to Their Win in 2008?

The Phillies’ World Series appearance in 2009 was a strong follow-up to their win in 2008, but they ultimately fell short of repeating as champions.

2008 World Series Win:
- Dominance: The Phillies were dominant throughout the 2008 postseason, defeating the Tampa Bay Rays in five games to win the World Series.
- Team Performance: Key players like Cole Hamels, Chase Utley, and Ryan Howard played significant roles in the team’s success.
2009 World Series Appearance:
- Return to the Series: The Phillies returned to the World Series in 2009, defeating the Colorado Rockies and Los Angeles Dodgers in the playoffs.
- Loss to the Yankees: They faced a strong New York Yankees team and lost in six games.
- Challenges: The Phillies faced challenges with pitching inconsistencies and injuries during the 2009 season.
Comparison:
- Expectations: The Phillies entered the 2009 season with high expectations after their World Series win in 2008.
- Competition: The competition was tougher in 2009, with the Yankees being a formidable opponent.
- Overall: While the Phillies’ 2009 season was successful, their World Series loss was a disappointment compared to their championship win in 2008.

Staying connected to your favorite sports moments is easier than ever with today’s technology. If you’re a Polar user looking to maximize your fitness tracking experience, polarservicecenter.net offers a wealth of resources to help you troubleshoot issues, understand your device’s features, and find the support you need. Visit our site today and take your fitness journey to the next level.

FAQ About the Phillies Mets Game

Here are some frequently asked questions about the Phillies Mets game on August 23, 2009:

1. What is the significance of the Eric Bruntlett unassisted triple play?

The Eric Bruntlett unassisted triple play was the second to end a Major League Baseball game, making it a historic and rare event.

2. Who was the starting pitcher for the Phillies in that game?

Pedro Martinez was the starting pitcher for the Philadelphia Phillies.

3. What was the final score of the Phillies Mets game?

The Philadelphia Phillies defeated the New York Mets with a final score of 9-7.

4. Why was this game considered unusual?

This game was considered unusual because of several strange plays, including an inside-the-park home run and the unassisted triple play to end the game.

5. What was Eric Bruntlett’s primary role on the Phillies team?

Eric Bruntlett primarily served as a reserve infielder and utility player.

6. Did the Phillies win the World Series in 2009?

No, the Phillies lost to the New York Yankees in the 2009 World Series.

7. How did the Mets perform in the 2009 season?

The Mets did not make the playoffs in 2009, finishing with a regular-season record of 70-92.

8. What was the attendance for the Phillies Mets game?

The attendance for the game was 43,657 at Citi Field.

9. How did the media cover the unassisted triple play?

The media widely covered the unassisted triple play, highlighting its rarity and significance in baseball history.

10. What impact did Charlie Manuel have on the Phillies team?

Charlie Manuel’s managerial style, with its player-friendly approach and offensive focus, played a significant role in the Phillies’ success during his tenure.

For any technical assistance with your Polar devices, remember to visit polarservicecenter.net. We provide comprehensive guides, troubleshooting tips, and support to ensure your fitness tracking experience remains seamless.

Address: 2902 Bluff St, Boulder, CO 80301, United States
Phone: +1 (303) 492-7080
Website: polarservicecenter.net

If you’re a Polar user in the USA seeking reliable service and support, look no further than polarservicecenter.net. Our website provides easy access to troubleshooting guides, warranty information, and contact details for our expert support team. We’re dedicated to helping you resolve any issues and maximize your experience with Polar products. Visit us today to find the solutions you need and stay connected to your fitness goals.