The 1986 National League Championship Series (NLCS) between the Houston Astros and the New York Mets was heavily influenced by the dominant pitching of Astros ace Mike Scott. Scott's performance was so overwhelming that it created a unique strategic imperative for the Mets, particularly in Game 6. His ability to shut down the Mets' powerful offense became a central narrative of the series, pushing the Mets to view Game 6 as a must-win scenario to avoid
facing him in a decisive Game 7.
Scott's exceptional form extended into the postseason, where he was a formidable force against the Mets. In Game 1, he yielded just five singles and struck out an LCS-record 14 hitters, pitching a five-hit complete-game shutout. He continued his dominance in Game 4, pitching another three-hit complete game despite being on only three days' rest. Across his two starts, Scott posted an incredible 0.50 ERA, with 19 strikeouts, 8 hits, and only one walk in 18 innings. The Mets aggressively voiced suspicions that Scott was doctoring the baseball, though nothing was ever found to support these claims. This level of dominance made him an almost unbeatable opponent in the series.
The Mets' Fear of Game 7 and Scott's Influence
The Mets' struggles against Mike Scott were profound. They had scored only one run off him in 18 innings in his previous two outings. This made the prospect of facing him again in a potential Game 7 a daunting one. Several Mets players openly acknowledged that they considered Game 6 a "deciding game," playing it more like a Game 7 because they believed they would lose to Scott again if the series went the distance. This underlying fear of Scott's pitching significantly shaped the Mets' approach and urgency in Game 6.
Mets manager Davey Johnson used his bullpen aggressively in Game 6, a clear indication of the team's desire to close out the series and avoid Scott. Bob Ojeda started, followed by Rick Aguilera, and then Roger McDowell, who pitched five scoreless innings. This strategy aimed to keep the Astros' offense at bay long enough for the Mets to secure a victory, regardless of how long the game went. The Mets' determination to win Game 6 was palpable, driven by the knowledge that Scott was waiting in the wings for a potential Game 7.
Game 6: A Marathon to Avoid Scott
Game 6 itself became a marathon, extending to 16 innings. The Mets' dramatic ninth-inning comeback, tying the game at 3-3, was crucial. They then took a 4-3 lead in the 14th, only for Billy Hatcher to hit a solo home run in the bottom of the inning to tie it again. The Mets finally secured a three-run lead in the 16th, making it 7-4. Despite a late Astros rally that cut the lead to 7-6, Jesse Orosco struck out Kevin Bass to end the game and the series. This hard-fought victory allowed the Mets to advance to the World Series, successfully averting another start by the seemingly unbeatable Mike Scott. Scott's exceptional performance earned him the 1986 NLCS Most Valuable Player award, a rare honor for a player on the losing team, further underscoring his impact on the series. His dominance was a key factor in making Game 6 an unforgettable and high-stakes contest.
