Here’s a baseball fan-friendly recap of Games 1 through 4 of the series and a preview of the high-stakes Game 5 showdown between the Dodgers and the Mets:
Series Recap: Dodgers vs. Mets (Games 1-4)
The Los Angeles Dodgers are just one win away from securing a spot in the World Series, leading the series 3-1 after flexing their offensive power against the New York Mets. Their dominance on both sides of the ball has left the Mets teetering on the brink of elimination. Here’s a breakdown of the first four games:
Game 1: Dodgers 9, Mets 0
The Dodgers opened the series with a bang as Jack Flaherty delivered a masterful performance, pitching seven shutout innings and holding the Mets to just three hits. Los Angeles’ offense, led by Shohei Ohtani, Mookie Betts, and Freddie Freeman, overwhelmed the Mets early. The Dodgers took control right from the start, scoring three runs in the first two innings, setting the tone for the series.
Game 2: Dodgers 5, Mets 1
The momentum carried into Game 2, where the Dodgers’ pitching staff stifled the Mets once again. Betts hit a crucial home run, and their bullpen backed up starter Bobby Miller, limiting New York to just one run. Kodai Senga struggled with command, leaving after a short outing, and the Dodgers took advantage to build a comfortable lead.
Game 3: Dodgers 7, Mets 1
In the first game at Citi Field, the Dodgers remained relentless. Ohtani’s leadoff single set the table for another multi-run early inning, deflating the home crowd. The Mets couldn’t find answers at the plate, managing only a handful of hits while Los Angeles’ deep lineup continued to pile on the runs.
Game 4: Mets 6, Dodgers 4
The Mets avoided the sweep with a gutsy Game 4 win. Pete Alonso led the way with a three-run homer in the third inning, giving the Mets their first lead of the series. The bullpen stepped up to protect the advantage, and despite a late rally from the Dodgers, the Mets held on for a 6-4 victory to stay alive.
Game 5 Preview: Dodgers vs. Mets – Do or Die
The Mets will pin their hopes on David Peterson in Game 5, hoping to extend the series and keep their championship dreams alive. Peterson hasn’t started in the postseason so far, making this a tough spot for him, especially considering he’s primarily been used in relief recently.
Peterson will need to overcome his struggles against the Dodgers, who have hit .343 against him in 72 plate appearances this season. The Dodgers’ hitters are dialed in, especially since they just faced a left-hander in Game 4. Expect their usual aggressive approach at the plate, with Ohtani, Betts, and Freeman leading the charge at the top of the order.
Meanwhile, Los Angeles will counter with Jack Flaherty, who was lights-out in Game 1. His 3.58 ERA and success since joining the Dodgers make him a reliable option to close out the series. Flaherty has dominated the Mets across multiple starts, limiting them to a .209 average and striking out nearly a quarter of their batters.
Prediction: Dodgers’ Depth vs. Mets’ Desperation
The Mets are in a tough position with limited pitching options, and Peterson’s shaky recent performances add to the uncertainty. If the Dodgers can jump on him early—as they’ve done in prior games—the pressure will shift back to the Mets’ bullpen, which has already been heavily taxed throughout the series.
The Dodgers have thrived under high-pressure situations, and their ability to score early has been a key factor in their success. Flaherty’s consistency gives Los Angeles the upper hand on the mound, while their star-studded lineup can take over any game in an instant.
Prediction: Dodgers 5, Mets 2
Look for the Dodgers to seal the deal and advance to the World Series, capitalizing on their offensive firepower and steady pitching. The Mets may show some fight, but the Dodgers’ depth and momentum seem too much to overcome.