Mets’ bats suddenly explode and put the pressure on Dodgers as NLCS heads back to LA

· New York Post

Going quietly doesn’t seem to be the Mets’ style this season.

Pete Alonso launched a three-run home run to center field in the first inning to stake the Mets to an early lead they would never give up in a 12-6 victory over the Dodgers at a thunderous Citi Field.

The Mets cut the Dodgers’ NLCS series to 3-2 after dropping the first two games in Queens.

Alonso and Jesse Winker walked to lead off the third inning and then Starling Marie, Francisco Alvarez, Francisco Lindor and Brandon Nimmo all had run-scoring hits as the Mets lead grew 8-1.

Pete Alonso hits a three-run homer in the first inning against the Dodgers in Game 5 of the NLCS on Oct. 18, 2024. Corey Sipkin for the NY POST
Starling Marte celebrates for the Mets after an RBI hit in Game 5 of the NLCS. Corey Sipkin for the NY POST

There were some nervous moments in the middle innings as the Dodgers’ combination of patience and power — including two home runs by No. 9 hitter Andy Pages — trimmed the lead to 10-6 in the top of the sixth.

However, Ryne Stanek — after allowing a Mookie Betts’ solo homer — cooled the Dodgers bats with 2 1/3 solid innings.

Edwin Diaz threw two scoreless innings to close out the win.

Game 6 is Sunday night in Los Angeles.