The Los Angeles Dodgers are on the cusp of returning to the World Series for the first time since 2020 after a dominant 10-2 victory over the New York Mets in Game 4 of the National League Championship Series. The Dodgers hold a 3-1 lead in the series after two consecutive wins over the Mets at Citi Field. Shohei Ohtani and Mookie Betts led the offensive charge, while Max Muncy set a postseason record by reaching base in 12 consecutive plate appearances. The Dodgers’ pitching staff continued to excel, with Yoshinobu Yamamoto, Evan Phillips, and Blake Treinen shutting down the Mets’ lineup.
In Game 5, the Dodgers have the opportunity to clinch the National League pennant, with Jack Flaherty expected to start for Los Angeles. The Mets, who have struggled to regain their late-game magic, look to Kodai Senga and David Peterson to keep their season alive. Max Muncy’s historic performance in the postseason, including reaching base in 12 straight plate appearances, has solidified his candidacy for NLCS MVP.
The Mets’ reliance on their starting pitchers has backfired in this series, with no starter reaching the sixth inning through four games. Los Angeles has shown depth and versatility in their lineup and bullpen, while the Mets’ struggles on both ends have been evident. Yoshinobu Yamamoto’s success with his slider highlighted the Dodgers’ ability to maximize their pitching weapons. As the Dodgers look to secure their World Series berth, the Mets face an uphill battle in Game 5.
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