Following a rough Game 1 in the NLCS where they surrendered nine runs, the Mets’ pitching staff rebounded impressively in Game 2, limiting the formidable Dodgers lineup to just three runs and securing a victory.
Starting pitcher Sean Manaea delivered a strong performance, striking out seven over five innings before the bullpen stepped in during a critical moment in the sixth inning, where the bases were loaded. Phil Maton, Ryne Stanek, and Edwin Diaz combined effectively, pitching 1.1 innings to seal the win while managing to keep the core of the Dodgers’ order hitless, finishing with a collective 0-for-19 and five walks against stars like Shohei Ohtani and Mookie Betts.
Manaea showcased his skill by striking out Ohtani twice and limiting him to a 0-for-3 day with two walks. Reflecting on his success against the likely NL MVP, Manaea remarked that it was just part of his role. “It’s great, he’s just one of the guys in the lineup,” he said.
The Mets jumped to a swift 6-0 lead in the second inning, highlighted by Mark Vientos’ grand slam. While Manaea acknowledged that such run support is beneficial, he maintained that it doesn’t alter his strategy on the mound. “With a big lead like that it just makes it so you can breathe a little bit,” he noted.
In the eighth inning, with the Mets leading 6-3 and two runners on base, manager Carlos Mendoza called in Diaz to secure the final four outs. The closer relied on his slider, retiring Enrique Hernández to end the eighth inning after a series of effective pitches.
Diaz faced some challenges in the ninth after allowing a single and walking Ohtani, but he stayed composed, relying on his fastball to close out the game. He explained his mindset during the tense moment, saying, “I got to keep trusting my stuff. My fastball was really good today.”
Over his career, Diaz has effectively handled Ohtani, who is 0-for-4 against him in postseason appearances. “I try to challenge him,” Diaz stated, emphasizing his confidence in his abilities against any batter.
As the series is now tied 1-1 and moves to New York for Games 3 through 5, both Diaz and the Mets are eager to keep the momentum going. “Going back home, we have a chance to take the series at home,” Diaz expressed confidently.