We describe a convergent synthesis of the MRSA beta-methyl carbapenem 1, wherein the molecule is assembled from the naphthosultam side chain 2 and the allylic carbonate of the beta-Me carbapenem piece 6. The beta-Me stereochemistry of 6 is set up in a novel titanium enolate addition into the TBDMS acetoxy azetidinone 5. The benzenesulfonate salt of 1 is endowed with exceptional stability.