Dodgers on the Brink of World Series Return
The Los Angeles Dodgers find themselves tantalizingly close to advancing to the 2024 World Series, holding a commanding 3-1 lead over the New York Mets in the National League Championship Series (NLCS). With just one more victory needed, the Dodgers can clinch their first pennant since 2020 this Friday at Citi Field, where the Mets will host Game 5.
A Series of Blowouts
So far, the NLCS has lacked the nail-biting drama that often characterizes postseason baseball. The Dodgers have dominated the Mets in their three victories, outscoring them an astonishing 27-2. Game 1 was a resounding 9-0 shutout, followed by an 8-0 win in Game 3 and a 10-2 rout in Game 4. The only blemish on the Dodgers’ record came in Game 2, where the Mets seized control early, jumping out to a six-run lead and never looking back.
Path to the NLCS
Both teams had to navigate challenging paths to reach the NLCS. The Mets, who eliminated the Milwaukee Brewers in the Wild Card Series and the Philadelphia Phillies in the Division Series, showcased their resilience and tenacity. The Dodgers, on the other hand, received a bye in the first round as the National League’s top seed and dispatched the San Diego Padres in the NLDS, demonstrating their prowess and depth.
NLCS Schedule Recap
The NLCS is a best-of-seven series, and the schedule has unfolded as follows:
- Game 1: Sun., Oct. 13 – LAD 9, NYM 0
- Game 2: Mon., Oct. 14 – NYM 7, LAD 3
- Game 3: Weds., Oct. 16 – LAD 8, NYM 0
- Game 4: Thurs., Oct. 17 – LAD 10, NYM 2
- Game 5: Fri., Oct. 18 – 5:08 p.m. ET at Citi Field (FS1)
- Game 6 (if necessary): Sun., Oct. 20 – 8:08 p.m. ET (FS1)
- Game 7 (if necessary): Mon., Oct. 21 – 8:08 p.m. ET (FOX, FS1)
Game 5 Preview
As the Dodgers prepare for Game 5, all eyes will be on the pitching matchup. The Dodgers are expected to send right-hander Jack Flaherty to the mound, while the Mets will counter with lefty David Peterson. The odds favor the Dodgers at -140, with an over/under set at 7.5 runs. Fans can catch the action live on FS1 or stream it via FuboTV.
Mets: The Miracle Team
The Mets have had a rollercoaster ride leading up to the NLCS. After a chaotic end to the regular season, which included a makeup doubleheader in Atlanta, they showcased their grit by staging dramatic comebacks in both the Wild Card Series and the Division Series. Despite their recent struggles against the Dodgers, the Mets possess a deep and clutch lineup, complemented by a strong veteran rotation. However, their bullpen has shown signs of wear, particularly with closer Edwin Díaz appearing fatigued. Still, the Mets have been one of baseball’s hottest teams since early June, and they will need to channel that energy to stave off elimination.
Dodgers: A High-Octane Offense
The Dodgers, who have faced their share of playoff disappointments in recent years, are determined to make a statement this postseason. With a regular-season record of 98 wins, they boast a high-octane offense that led the National League in OPS and home runs, and ranked second in runs scored. The addition of Shohei Ohtani, alongside former MVPs Mookie Betts and Freddie Freeman, has made their lineup formidable. Teoscar Hernández adds depth, while the bullpen has proven its mettle in the playoffs. However, the starting rotation has been a concern, with injuries limiting their options to just three reliable arms: Yoshinobu Yamamoto, Jack Flaherty, and Walker Buehler.
The Stakes Are High
As the Dodgers prepare for Game 5, the stakes couldn’t be higher. A win would not only secure their place in the World Series but also serve as a redemption arc after recent playoff disappointments. For the Mets, it’s a do-or-die situation, where they must rally to keep their championship hopes alive. The excitement is palpable, and fans on both sides are gearing up for what promises to be an electrifying showdown at Citi Field.