In a pivotal Game 5 of the National League Championship Series, Pete Alonso set the tone for the Mets with a stunning three-run home run in the first inning. Alonso connected with a low slider from Dodgers’ pitcher Jack Flaherty, launching a 432-foot blast to deep center field.
This improbable home run, hit off a pitch just 1.12 feet above the ground, was the second-lowest ball ever hit for a home run in postseason history, marking an extraordinary display of hitting skill. Alonso’s power play ignited the Mets’ offense, contributing to their 12-6 victory that kept their season alive.
Alonso’s home run was just the beginning of an impressive offensive performance by the Mets, who did not strike out a single time throughout the game, a rare feat in postseason history. The last team to accomplish this was the 2002 Los Angeles Angels during the World Series.
The Mets’ lineup consistently applied pressure on the Dodgers’ pitchers, with contributions from multiple players. Starling Marte had four hits, and Francisco Alvarez added three more, highlighting the collective effort that overwhelmed the Dodgers’ defense.
Jack Flaherty, who had shut out the Mets in Game 1, struggled significantly in Game 5. He lasted just three innings, giving up eight runs on eight hits and four walks. Mets manager Carlos Mendoza attributed the team’s success to their discipline at the plate, noting that they avoided chasing Flaherty’s secondary pitches and capitalized on the fastballs he left in the strike zone.
Dodgers manager Dave Roberts acknowledged that Flaherty wasn’t at his best, as his fastball velocity was down from previous games, possibly due to illness. Despite this, Roberts left Flaherty in longer than expected, allowing the Mets to build a substantial lead.
Though the Dodgers mounted a comeback attempt, with two home runs from Andy Pages and a blast from Mookie Betts cutting the deficit to 10-6, the Mets continued to respond. Jeff McNeil’s sacrifice fly in the sixth inning and Starling Marte’s RBI single in the eighth added crucial insurance runs, ensuring that the Dodgers couldn’t close the gap. Mets first baseman Pete Alonso emphasized the team’s resilience and ability to answer back every time the Dodgers scored, which was key to their victory.
The Mets’ Game 5 win sends the series back to Los Angeles for a Game 6 showdown. Mets shortstop Francisco Lindor noted the team’s improved intensity and execution compared to their Game 4 loss, where they struggled with runners in scoring position.
Manager Carlos Mendoza also strategically deployed his bullpen, with Ryne Stanek pitching his longest outing of the season and Edwin Diaz closing out the game. With their season on the line, the Mets will rely on starting pitcher Sean Manaea in Game 6, while the Dodgers are planning a bullpen game.
