Mets crush Pirates 13-4 on Lindor grand slam, 10-run sixth

NEW YORK (AP) — Pete Alonso hit a three-run homer and Francisco Lindor clubbed New York’s first grand slam this season during a 10-run sixth inning, and the Mets embarrassed the Pittsburgh Pirates 13-4 Friday night.

A night after being postponed because of weather for the second time in a week, New York won for the fifth time in seven games. Friday's matchup was delayed 41 minutes as lightning, thunder and heavy rain blanketed Citi Field with one out in the bottom of the eighth.

Taijuan Walker allowed two runs over five innings and was told after the game by manager Luis Rojas that he'd been added to the National League All-Star team. The Mets are undefeated in his eight home starts.

The NL East leaders broke through against Pirates starter JT Brubaker (4-9) in the sixth, leading off the frame with a single by Brandon Nimmo and a full-count walk by Lindor. Dominic Smith singled, scoring Nimmo and breaking a 2-all tie.

After a brief mound visit by the pitching coach, Alonso crushed one in close vicinity of the Pittsburgh bullpen, chasing Brubaker.

Most of the 20,350 in attendance rose to their feet as Alonso pumped his fist emphatically between first and second base, celebrating his 16th home run of the season but only his second at home.

The Mets continued to pile on against the Pirates’ bullpen. Sam Howard loaded the bases on two walks and a single. The wild lefty plunked pinch-hitter Jose Peraza, scoring Jeff McNeil. He then walked Nimmo, plating Michael Conforto before being lifted for Kyle Keller.

Lindor lined Keller’s 1-0 fastball just over the left-center field wall, extending the lead to 12-2 with his 10th homer and third career grand slam.

Aaron Loup (3-0) pitched a scoreless sixth for the win.

After an easy 10-pitch first inning, New York starter Taijuan...

source https://www.chron.com/sports/article/Mets-crush-Pirates-13-4-on-Lindor-grand-slam-16305474.php