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2024 NLCS Preview: Mets vs. Dodgers Showdown
October 11, 2024, 10:36 PM ET
The stage is set for the 2024 National League Championship Series!
On Sunday, the formidable New York Mets will face off against the Los Angeles Dodgers, with the coveted World Series spot up for grabs.
The Mets have made a triumphant return to the NLCS for the first time since 2015, thanks to Francisco Lindor’s stunning grand slam in Game 4, which ended the Philadelphia Phillies’ run. Meanwhile, the Dodgers secured their spot by defeating the San Diego Padres with a nail-biting 2-0 victory in Game 5 of the NLDS.
What insights have emerged regarding these two powerhouse teams? What strategies must they employ to reach the Fall Classic? And who among them could be the pivotal players in the NLCS? ESPN MLB analysts Jorge Castillo, Alden Gonzalez, and David Schoenfield delve into the details.
New York Mets: A Deep and Diverse Lineup
What stands out about the Mets in this postseason?
Castillo: The Mets exhibit an unyielding lineup. While they may not have the star intensity found in the Dodgers’ roster, their batting order is among the most formidable in Major League Baseball. Their ability to score from every position makes them a challenging opponent. They demonstrate astute at-bats, consistently come through in high-pressure situations, and skillfully exploit opposing bullpens. A prime example was in Game 4 against the Phillies, where, after failing to capitalize with the bases loaded twice in the initial innings, Lindor delivered a critical‌ grand slam against Carlos Estevez, the Phillies’ top reliever. On any given night, it could be Lindor, or Mark Vientos, or Pete Alonso, or any of their other talented hitters stepping up. The lineup has a nice balance and depth, a potential game-changer on the road to the NL pennant.
Key Considerations for the Mets
Schoenfield: The Mets possess exceptional starting pitching depth compared to their postseason counterparts, featuring six capable arms including Kodai Senga, who started Game 1 against the Phillies but requires more preparation. Sean Manaea delivered an outstanding performance in Game 3 of the NLDS, pitching seven scoreless innings, contributing to a remarkable 16-4 record in his last 20 starts. Jose Quintana has only surrendered one unearned run in 11 innings in his playoff outings, while Luis Severino, David Peterson, and Tylor Megill provide additional options, with Peterson also showing versatility as a reliever. With a three-day rest before the opening game, the Mets can regroup and assess the starter setup carefully.
Challenges Against the Dodgers
Castillo: Although the Dodgers displayed a solid bullpen throughout the NLDS, relying heavily on their relief pitchers may not be sustainable against the Mets. The New York team is likely to wear down Los Angeles’ bullpen if starters such as Yoshinobu Yamamoto and Jack Flaherty do not extend their outings significantly. Failing to do so could mean trouble for the Dodgers as the series progresses.
Schoenfield: Another significant advantage for the Mets lies in their trio of left-handed pitchers—Manaea, Quintana, and Peterson. Superstar Shohei Ohtani reacts poorly to lefties, amassing an OPS of .867 compared to a staggering 1.128 against righties. Furthermore, Max Muncy struggled with a .172 average against southpaws, and if Freddie Freeman can play, he’s been less effective against lefties as well. Deploying more left-handed pitchers will play into the Mets’ strategy effectively.
Pivotal Players for the Mets
Castillo: A critical aspect for the Mets hinges on their bullpen, making closer Edwin Diaz an essential figure in this series. He’s regarded as the most effective reliever on the roster, featuring a high-velocity fastball and an outstanding slider. Yet, his performance this year has been inconsistent after a torn ACL sidelined him throughout 2023, with a rocky period including a brief loss of his closing role and a sticky substance-related suspension. Following some shaky outings in the playoffs, the Mets require Diaz to regain his dominant form to close out games decisively.
Los Angeles Dodgers: Overcoming Obstacles
What has impressed observers about the Dodgers this postseason?
Gonzalez: The Dodgers have excelled in maintaining a resilient bullpen amid mounting injuries to their starters. Looking at their remarkable performance, particularly in Game 4 where they secured a crucial shutout against the Padres, reflects the strength of their relief corps. Currently, they’ve adapted to a three-man rotation, with Yoshinobu Yamamoto, Jack Flaherty, and Walker Buehler each facing their set of challenges, but they still have up to seven reliable relievers at their disposal.
Schoenfield: The essence of the Dodgers has been their resilience, a trait that hasn’t always been in their favor in previous playoff runs. Despite clinching the NL West title, many anticipated the Padres to take the series when San Diego initially led 2-1. Yet, with perfect execution aided by their relief pitchers, the Dodgers moved past the Padres with a much-needed Game 4 win, demonstrating they can win even when star players like Freddie Freeman are hampered by injuries. This might just be the season when they surprise naysayers.
Tactical Considerations Against the Mets
Gonzalez: The Mets’ path to the NLCS drew interest, particularly with Lindor’s slam against Estevez, confirming their capability to deliver crucial hits. With six victories in nine games since their September 30 final regular-season contest against the Braves, they displayed notable resilience, completing five come-from-behind wins, including a trio of those in the late innings.
Schoenfield: While their resilience is impressive, the Dodgers must seek better results from their starting pitchers. Winning a five-game series while leaning heavily on the bullpen is one thing; however, sustaining that over seven games may pose challenges. The Mets too have shown crafted resilience with their comebacks against the Braves, Brewers, and Phillies, overcoming formidable closers.
Crucial Players for the Dodgers
Gonzalez: A player who may not be on everyone’s radar but is vital for the Dodgers is Enrique Hernandez. Acquired specifically for moments like these, he delivered a spectacular home run in the crucial Game 5. His ability to rise during high-pressure instances makes him a key asset, particularly in creating opportunities for players like Ohtani to capitalize on.
Schoenfield: Mookie Betts also stands out as a player who needs to carry his momentum forward. Following his resurgence with powerful home runs against the Padres, maintaining this level of performance is essential, especially with left-handed starters on the rise from the Mets and concerns about Freeman’s production.
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