Nimmo snaps out of slump with 3-run homer and Mets roll past Marlins 7-3

NEW YORK — Brandon Nimmo broke out of his slump with a three-run homer and Jeff McNeil launched a two-run shot, powering the New York Mets to a 7-3 win over the Miami Marlins on Friday night. “But today’s a step in the right direction.” The 31-year-old outfielder, who missed Thursday’s 7-6 loss to Oakland with a stomach virus, hit just.139 with four extra-base hits and 37 strikeouts between homers. “I don’t know, but it felt good to help out tonight.” The shot capped a six-run outburst for the Mets, who moved within a game of Atlanta for the third NL wild card when the Braves lost 3-2 at the Los Angeles Angels. “When he gets in a strong position and with conviction, he’s a pretty good hitter,” Mets manager Carlos Mendoza said. “It’s just tough to come back after that six-run fourth,” Marlins manager Skip Schumaker said.