LOS ANGELES – The Los Angeles Dodgers dominated the New York Mets, delivering a commanding 9-0 victory in Game 1 of the National League Championship Series. Concerns about an emotional letdown were put to rest as the Dodgers showcased their impressive pitching and hitting prowess at Dodger Stadium, where a crowd of 53,503 witnessed the team’s current postseason scoreless streak extend to 33 consecutive innings—a matching of the major-league record set by the Baltimore Orioles in the 1966 World Series.
Dodgers pitcher Jack Flaherty was exceptional, throwing seven scoreless innings and allowing only two hits. He retired the first nine batters he faced, and the only hit against him until the fifth inning came from Jesse Winker. Flaherty’s performance made it possible for Dodgers manager Dave Roberts to utilize a bullpen approach in Game 2 while conserving pitcher Walker Buehler for Game 3.
On the offensive side, the Dodgers steadily wore down the Mets’ pitching staff, with a strong performance led by Shohei Ohtani, Freddie Freeman, Max Muncy, and Enrique Hernandez, all of whom contributed multiple hits. Mookie Betts capped off the night by clearing the bases in the eighth inning with a three-run double.
Throughout the game, the Mets struggled offensively, managing only three hits and failing to score any runs. Their star players, including Francisco Lindor and Pete Alonso, went hitless, and the Mets’ lone rally was derailed by poor baserunning.
As the Dodgers look ahead, they have built momentum heading into the continuation of the series, while the Mets face the challenge of regrouping as they plan their strategy for Game 2.
In roster news, relief pitcher Alex Vesia and shortstop Miguel Rojas were left off the Dodgers’ NLCS roster due to respective injuries. Conversely, the Mets welcomed back second baseman Jeff McNeil, who had missed time due to a wrist fracture, adding depth to their lineup.