Pete Alonso Ignites Mets’ Offensive Surge in Pivotal NLCS Game

The resilience of the New York Mets was on full display as they staged an incredible 12-6 comeback against the Los Angeles Dodgers in Game 5 of the National League Championship Series. Mets’ powerhouse Pete Alonso kick-started the team’s offensive onslaught with a three-run homer. Notably, the Mets were able to outplay Dodgers’ ace, Jack Flaherty, turning a do-or-die situation into a thrilling victory.

Unforgettable Performance from Mets’ Players

Francisco Lindor, the Mets’ shortstop, highlighted the team’s determination. “We knew we had to give everything we had, and that’s precisely what we did,” he said. Meanwhile, Starling Marte and Francisco Alvarez played pivotal roles, contributing three doubles, seven hits, and four RBIs. The Mets’ offensive prowess was on full display in the third inning when Jesse Winker and Lindor both hit RBI triples, contributing to a five-run inning.

The Mets’ manager, Carlos Mendoza, was all praises for the team’s performance. “Pete set the tone in the first inning, and we just kept building from there,” he said. With this victory, the Mets have managed to keep their playoff dreams alive, trimming their series deficit to 3-2 and forcing the NLCS back to Los Angeles for Game 6.

Alonso’s Performance – A Game-Changer

Reflecting on the game, Alonso expressed his sense of urgency, “After yesterday’s game, we decided to give it our all, and that’s what we did.” With this spirit, Alonso hit his fourth homer this postseason, launching a low slider 432 feet to center field. This wasn’t the first time Alonso had saved the Mets in a tense situation. He also hit a game-winning shot in Game 3 of their Wild Card Series against Milwaukee.

Alonso’s Future with the Mets

The crowd at Citi Field, aware that it could be Alonso’s last home game, chanted his name as he stepped up to bat in the eighth inning. “It’s like something out of a storybook,” Alonso said, reflecting on the crowd’s reaction.

Flaherty’s Fumble and Mets’ Pitching Power

Flaherty, who had a chance to pitch his team into the World Series, had a disappointing performance. After delivering a stellar performance in Game 1, Flaherty fell short in Game 5, allowing eight runs and eight hits in three innings. He didn’t strike out a single batter, a first since his game against Pittsburgh in September 2022.

David Peterson, the Mets’ starting pitcher, managed to get out of a tricky situation in the first inning but struggled to maintain his momentum despite a seven-run lead. However, Reed Garrett stepped up in a crucial moment, striking out Freddie Freeman with bases loaded to end the inning.

Mets’ Path Forward

Despite the Dodgers’ efforts to close the gap, the Mets held their ground. “We’re ready to fight another day,” said an elated Alonso. However, the Mets still need two more victories in LA to clinch the NL pennant. “We’ve faced adversity all year, but we’ve always risen to the occasion. We can do it,” said Brandon Nimmo, a Mets’ teammate.

Up Next in the Series

The Mets will start with Sean Manaea on Sunday, whereas the Dodgers will rely on their bullpen. The Dodgers’ rotation has been thinned out due to injuries. The Mets have shown they can rise to the occasion, and the next game would be no different. “We come from a lot of adversity. We can beat them,” said Mets’ closer, Edwin Díaz.