Soto's three-run homer caps six-run fourth as Mets rout Nationals

Juan Soto’s three-run homer keyed a six-run fourth inning as the New York Mets routed the Washington Nationals 12-6 at Citi Field, a victory that bolstered New York’s hold on a late-season National League wild-card chase and underscored a sudden offensive upturn for the club. Soto’s 42nd home run of the season, a career high, capped the rally and energized a crowd that had watched the Mets struggle earlier in September.

The outburst began with a two-run double by catcher Francisco Álvarez and an RBI single from Francisco Lindor, who finished with three hits as one of five Mets with multiple hits. Starter Brandon Sproat, making his third big-league appearance and filling in for an injured rotation, worked four innings and allowed four runs on four hits while striking out five. The bullpen then shut the door: Brooks Raley, Ryne Stanek, Ryan Helsley, Tyler Rogers and Chris Devenski combined to throw 4 2/3 scoreless innings without allowing a baserunner, according to game accounts. New York added insurance in the eighth when Luisangel Acuña walked with the bases loaded and Brandon Nimmo delivered a two-run single.

The win came days after another key victory at Citi Field, when the...