In a thrilling Game 5 of the National League Championship Series (NLCS), the New York Mets, led by Pete Alonso's powerful three-run homer, defeated the Los Angeles Dodgers 12-6. This victory extended the series and sent it back to Los Angeles for Game 6 on Sunday. The Mets' win was nothing short of miraculous, as they saved their season for the second time in these playoffs, both times thanks to Alonso's crucial three-run shots.
Alonso's early three-run homer in the first inning set the tone for the game. The ball, described as a low slider, sailed 432 feet to center field, giving the Mets an immediate 3-0 lead. This was Alonso's fourth homer this postseason and marked another dramatic moment in his career, reminiscent of his go-ahead shot in Game 3 of their Wild Card Series against Milwaukee, where he hit a three-run homer with two outs remaining in the ninth inning to keep his team alive.
Starling Marte also had a stellar performance, contributing three doubles and four hits with three RBIs. Francisco Alvarez broke out of his slump with three hits, including an RBI single in a five-run third inning. Francisco Lindor and Jesse Winker each laced an RBI triple, further solidifying the Mets' offense.
Despite getting blown out in three of the first four games, including two consecutive defeats at home, the wild-card Mets managed to stay in contention. Their 12 runs were one shy of matching their most in a postseason game in franchise history (13 in Game 3 of the 2015 NL Division Series against the Dodgers). This was their most runs scored in a postseason game when facing elimination.
The Dodgers' Jack Flaherty had a disappointing outing. After throwing seven shutout innings with only two hits allowed in Game 1, he fell behind 3-0 just four batters into Game 5. Flaherty allowed eight runs and eight hits over three innings, failing to strike out a batter for the first time since a September 2022 game against Pittsburgh. This performance was a stark contrast to his previous outing.
The Mets' bullpen played a crucial role in securing the win. Relievers Ryne Stanek and Edwin Daz settled things down after the Dodgers cut an eight-run deficit to 10-6. Stanek worked a career-high 2 1/3 innings for the victory, while Daz got six outs without permitting a run.
Dodgers rookie Andy Pages homered twice and drove in four runs, while Mookie Betts went deep for the second consecutive game. However, these efforts were not enough to overcome the Mets' strong offense and bullpen performance.
The Mets' victory was not just about the game itself but also about the momentum it brought. As Francisco Alvarez noted after the game, 'I think that this is about momentum, and we take the momentum back today. So we have to keep going with the two games in Los Angeles.' This mindset is crucial as they head into Game 6 with renewed confidence.
Sean Manaea is expected to start for New York on five days' rest, while the Dodgers are likely to go with another bullpen game due to a thin rotation decimated by injuries. The stage is set for an intense Game 6, with both teams eager to advance to the World Series.
The Mets' resilience and determination have been a hallmark of their season. From their early struggles in April to their current playoff run, they have consistently shown that they refuse to give up. As Mike Lupica of the New York Daily News noted, 'These never-say-die Mets refuse to let this NLCS end at Citi Field.' Their spirit and teamwork have carried them through numerous challenges, making them a formidable opponent in any series.
As the series heads back to Los Angeles, both teams are ready for the next challenge. The Mets will look to build on their momentum, while the Dodgers will aim to regain control of the series. The outcome is far from certain, but one thing is clear: this NLCS has been filled with drama and excitement, and fans are eagerly anticipating what's next.
In conclusion, the Mets' victory in Game 5 was a testament to their never-say-die attitude and the power of Pete Alonso's bat. As they head into Game 6, they will be looking to continue this momentum and make history in the process. The world of baseball is watching with bated breath as these two teams clash in what promises to be an epic conclusion to the NLCS.
