NEW YORK (Interstat) — Luis Robert Jr. launched a three-run, walk-off home run in the bottom of the 11th inning Saturday afternoon, capping a dramatic comeback and lifting the New York Mets to a 4-2 victory over the Pittsburgh Pirates at Citi Field.

The Mets, who improved to 2-0, appeared headed for a second consecutive extra-inning defeat after squandering multiple opportunities. Instead, Robert’s blast off Pirates reliever Hunter Barco erased a one-run deficit and delivered a stunning finish before a crowd of 37,183.

For 10 innings, the story was a masterclass in pitching and missed chances. Starters Mitch Keller of the Pirates and David Peterson of the Mets set a dominant tone, each tossing six scoreless frames. Keller allowed just three hits and struck out three. Peterson was equally sharp, scattering six hits and striking out three over 5 1/3 innings.

The Pirates, who out-hit the Mets 12-6, repeatedly threatened but failed to capitalize, stranding 13 runners and going 2 for 13 with runners in scoring position. They finally broke through in the top of the 10th. With automatic runner Bryan Reynolds placed at second, Nick Gonzales lined an RBI single to center off Mets reliever Richard Lovelady, giving Pittsburgh a 1-0 lead.

New York answered immediately in its half of the 10th. With runners on second and third and one out, Luis Torrens delivered a pinch-hit single off Barco to tie the game 1-1. The Mets then loaded the bases with one out but could not push across the winning run, as Barco induced a forceout at home and a flyout to send the game to the 11th.

Pittsburgh regained the lead in the top of the 11th. Automatic runner Jake Mangum advanced to third on a groundout and scored on Bryan Reynolds’ infield single, making it 2-1.

In the bottom of the inning, Barco quickly found trouble. He walked Jorge Polanco and, after retiring Bo Bichette, fell behind Robert. On a 2-1 count, Robert connected, sending a towering drive to left-center field for his first homer of the season, a game-winning three-run shot.

The loss was a brutal one for the Pirates (0-2), who received stellar relief work from Gregory Soto (1 1/3 innings, three strikeouts) and Dennis Santana (a perfect inning) before the 10th and 11th inning unraveling. Barco took the loss, his first of the season.

Lovelady, who pitched the top of the 11th and was the pitcher of record when Robert homered, earned the win. He is 1-0.

The Mets’ bullpen, after Peterson’s exit, was superb until the extra innings. Huascar Brazobán, Luke Weaver, Devin Williams and Brooks Raley combined for 3 2/3 scoreless innings, allowing just two hits and striking out five.

The two teams conclude their three-game series Sunday afternoon at Citi Field. The Pirates will look to avoid a sweep before heading to Cincinnati, while the Mets will aim for a perfect homestand before embarking on a road trip to St. Louis.