The New York Mets kept their season alive in Game 5 of the National League Championship Series with a 12-6 victory over the Los Angeles Dodgers. Pete Alonso hit a three-run homer early in the game, while Starling Marte and Francisco Alvarez had big offensive performances. The Mets, who were facing elimination, cut the series deficit to 3-2 and forced a Game 6 in Los Angeles.
The Dodgers struggled with an ineffective Jack Flaherty on the mound, as he allowed eight runs in three innings. Despite a late rally, the Dodgers were unable to overcome the Mets’ lead. The Mets’ pitching was solid down the stretch, with relievers Ryne Stanek and Edwin Díaz shutting down the Dodgers’ offense.
In terms of injuries, Dodgers All-Star 1B Freddie Freeman returned to the lineup after missing a game with a sprained ankle. The Mets made a lineup change, with Jeff McNeil starting in place of Jose Iglesias at second base.
Looking ahead to Game 6, Sean Manaea is expected to start for the Mets, while the Dodgers are likely to go with a bullpen game due to injuries in their rotation. Manaea has been strong in the playoffs, with a 2-0 record and a 2.65 ERA in three starts. The Mets will look to continue their momentum in Game 6 and force a decisive Game 7 in the NLCS.
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