LOS ANGELES — Has the tension between the Mets and Dodgers, which flared up on Friday, come to an end?
“We’ll see,” remarked Francisco Alvarez on Saturday during a practice session at Dodger Stadium. “We’ll see what the next step is.”
Alvarez found himself at the center of one such incident during Game 5.
<img style="aspect-ratio:1.4796610169492;display:block" decoding="async" fetchpriority="high" width="873" height="590" src="https://nypost.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/2/2024/10/Andy-Pages.jpg?w=1024" alt="Dodgers' Andy Pages exaggerated bat flip after his homer in the Mets' Game 5 win didn't go over too well with Francisco Alvarez." class="wp-image-33647852" srcset="https://nypost.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/2/2024/10/Andy-Pages.jpg?quality=75&strip=all 3666w, https://nypost.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/2/2024/10/Andy-Pages.jpg?resize=300,203&quality=75&strip=all 300w, https://nypost.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/2/2024/10/Andy-Pages.jpg?resize=768,519&quality=75&strip=all 768w, https://nypost.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/2/2024/10/Andy-Pages.jpg?resize=1024,692&quality=75&strip=all 1024w, https://nypost.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/2/2024/10/Andy-Pages.jpg?resize=1536,1038&quality=75&strip=all 1536w, https://nypost.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/2/2024/10/Andy-Pages.jpg?resize=2048,1384&quality=75&strip=all 2048w, https://nypost.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/2/2024/10/Andy-Pages.jpg?resize=872,589&quality=75&strip=all 872w, https://nypost.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/2/2024/10/Andy-Pages.jpg?resize=734,496&quality=75&strip=all 734w, https://nypost.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/2/2024/10/Andy-Pages.jpg?resize=576,389&quality=75&strip=all 576w, https://nypost.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/2/2024/10/Andy-Pages.jpg?resize=440,297&quality=75&strip=all 440w, https://nypost.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/2/2024/10/Andy-Pages.jpg?resize=417,282&quality=75&strip=all 417w, https://nypost.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/2/2024/10/Andy-Pages.jpg?resize=180,122&quality=75&strip=all 180w, https://nypost.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/2/2024/10/Andy-Pages.jpg?resize=160,107&quality=75&strip=all 160w, https://nypost.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/2/2024/10/Andy-Pages.jpg?resize=144,96&quality=75&strip=all 144w, https://nypost.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/2/2024/10/Andy-Pages.jpg?resize=105,71&quality=75&strip=all 105w, https://nypost.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/2/2024/10/Andy-Pages.jpg?resize=93,62&quality=75&strip=all 93w, https://nypost.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/2/2024/10/Andy-Pages.jpg?resize=84,56&quality=75&strip=all 84w, https://nypost.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/
Andy Pages of the Dodgers hit a home run in the fourth inning, narrowing the Mets’ lead to 8-2, and took a moment to admire his shot.
He took four steps, performed an exaggerated bat flip, and then leisurely made his way around the bases.
By the time Pages reached home plate, Alvarez was already there, waiting.
“I simply told him to, ‘Run the bases,’ ” Alvarez recounted before Game 6 on Sunday.
In turn, Pages retorted with a few words of his own, placing a finger to his lips in a gesture meant to silence Alvarez.
Additionally, David Peterson seemed to exchange words with Max Muncy as they met at first base following a groundout during the fourth inning. As frequently occurs in high-stakes matchups like this, the competitive tension has clearly escalated.
“The last thing you want to do is stir up unnecessary conflicts on the field,” manager Carlos Mendoza stated on Saturday, addressing the growing contentiousness in general terms. “Both teams are competing fiercely. We understand that everything is on the line, and that they’re all competitors. Sometimes players just let their emotions show.”
<img style="aspect-ratio:1.4677966101695;display:block" decoding="async" loading="lazy" data-modal-image="33647853" width="866" height="590" src="https://nypost.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/2/2024/10/Francisco-Alvarez-1.jpg?w=1024" alt="Francisco Alvarez is greeted by teammates after he scored a run during the Mets' Game 5 win." class="wp-image-33647853" srcset="https://nypost.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/2/2024/10/Francisco-Alvarez-1.jpg?quality=75&strip=all 3560w, https://nypost.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/2/2024/10/Francisco-Alvarez-1.jpg?resize=300,205&quality=75&strip=all 300w, https://nypost.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/2/2024/10/Francisco-Alvarez
Francisco Alvarez is greeted by teammates after scoring a run during the Mets’ Game 5 victory. Corey Sipkin for New York Post
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“The last thing you want to do is awaken a rival team. That’s not our style. We’ll continue to play our game, and we’re not here to instigate anything.”
It’s also likely that the competitive spirit sparked something in Alvarez, who is known for playing with emotion. After a challenging start to his postseason—posting a .167 average and a .377 OPS over the first 11 games—the 22-year-old catcher turned things around by going 3-for-4 with a double and an RBI single on Friday.
Does he relish this type of intense, back-and-forth interaction with an opposing team?
“I love that,” Alvarez replied.
Tempers Flare: Mets and Dodgers Clash as Postseason Stakes Intensify
The Rivalry Heats Up
The New York Mets and Los Angeles Dodgers have a storied rivalry that has captivated baseball fans for decades. As both teams gear up for a potential playoff showdown, tensions are running high. With each team vying for a strong position in the postseason, the stakes couldn’t be higher.
Key Players to Watch
- Jacob deGrom (Mets) – Known for his blazing fastball and sharp sliders, deGrom has the potential to change the game with his pitching.
- Max Scherzer (Dodgers) - With his wealth of postseason experience, Scherzer can dominate any lineup when it matters most.
- Francisco Lindor (Mets) - A dynamic player with both defensive prowess and offensive talent, Lindor is crucial for the Mets’ success.
- Freddie Freeman (Dodgers) – Freeman’s hitting consistency makes him a key player for the Dodgers in critical matchups.
Recent Matchup Recap
The last meeting between the Mets and Dodgers was a nail-biter, showcasing both teams’ strengths and weaknesses. The game featured:
- Several lead changes
- Outstanding defensive plays
- A dramatic home run in the final inning
Statistics Overview
| Team | Wins | Losses | Win Percentage |
|---|---|---|---|
| Mets | 90 | 72 | .556 |
| Dodgers | 102 | 60 | .630 |
Why This Series Matters
The outcome of this series could have significant implications for both teams moving forward:
- Playoff Seeding: Securing a higher seed can mean home-field advantage in the postseason.
- Bragging Rights: Winning the head-to-head matchup boosts team morale and fan loyalty.
- Player Performance: Individual players can make their case for awards with standout performances in high-pressure games.
Postseason History
The Mets and Dodgers have clashed in the postseason before, with memorable moments that have defined their rivalry. Some highlights include:
- The 1988 NL Championship Series, where the Dodgers triumphed in a classic showdown.
- The 2006 NL Division Series, highlighted by a dramatic comeback by the Mets.
Head-to-Head Matchups
Recent Playoff Encounters
Here’s a quick look at their last five postseason encounters:
| Year | Series | Winner | Key Player |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1988 | NLCS | Dodgers | Orel Hershiser |
| 2006 | NLDS | Mets | David Wright |
| 2015 | NLDS | Dodgers | Clayton Kershaw |
| 2020 | NLWild Card | Mets | Jacob deGrom |
| 2021 | NLDS | Dodgers | Max Muncy |
Player Spotlight: Impact Performances
Throughout their rivalry, specific players have stepped up in crucial moments, leaving lasting impressions. Here are some memorable performances:
- David Wright (Mets): Known for his clutch hitting, Wright delivered several game-winning hits against the Dodgers during his career.
- Clayton Kershaw (Dodgers): Kershaw’s postseason performances have often defined the Dodgers’ success, leading them to multiple victories against the Mets.
First-Hand Experience: Insights from Fans
Baseball fans from both sides express their passion for this rivalry. Here’s what some have to say:
“Every time the Mets face the Dodgers, it feels like a battle for New York versus Los Angeles supremacy. The intensity is palpable!” - Mets Fan
“The playoff atmosphere is electric when these two teams meet. It’s more than just a game; it’s a fight for glory!” – Dodgers Fan
Benefits of Watching This Showdown
Tuning in to the Mets vs. Dodgers clashes can provide numerous benefits:
- Entertainment: Expect thrilling plays, high stakes, and nail-biting finishes.
- Community: Engaging with fellow fans enhances the experience, creating bonds over shared support.
- Insight: Watching elite players in action offers a deeper understanding of the game and its strategies.
Practical Tips for Fans Attending the Game
If you’re lucky enough to attend a game, here are some tips to enhance your experience:
- Arrive early to soak in the atmosphere and avoid traffic.
- Wear your team’s colors proudly to show your support.
- Engage with fellow fans to share insights and predictions.
Looking Ahead: What’s Next for Both Teams?
As the postseason approaches, the Mets and Dodgers must focus on their strategies and player health to maximize their chances of success:
- Injury Management: Keeping key players healthy is paramount for both teams.
- Pitching Rotation: Establishing a solid rotation will be critical in playoff series.
- Offensive Strategy: Adapting to each opponent’s strengths and weaknesses can give either team an edge.
Fan Engagement and Community Impact
The rivalry extends beyond the diamond, fostering communities of passionate fans and local businesses that thrive during game nights:
- Local Bars and Restaurants: Many establishments create special events around the games, drawing fans together.
- Charity Events: Both teams often engage in charity initiatives that unite their fanbases for a common cause.
Social Media Buzz
As the rivalry intensifies, social media becomes a hotbed for discussion and engagement. Hashtags like #MetsVsDodgers and #BattleForLA trend as fans express their excitement and predictions.
as the Mets and Dodgers prepare for what promises to be an electrifying postseason clash, the intensity of their rivalry reaches new heights. Fans, players, and analysts alike are keeping a close watch on how this pivotal series unfolds. The stage is set for an unforgettable showdown that could impact the trajectory of both teams in the postseason.
