After conceding nine runs in Game 1 of the NLCS, the Mets’ pitching staff bounced back impressively, limiting the formidable Dodgers to just three runs in a decisive Game 2 victory.
Starting pitcher Sean Manaea delivered a strong performance, striking out seven batters over five innings. The bullpen then took control in the sixth inning with the bases loaded, as Phil Maton, Ryne Stanek, and Edwin Diaz combined to pitch 1.1 innings without allowing further scoring. Notably, they effectively neutralized the core of the Dodgers’ lineup, holding them to a combined 0-for-19 with five walks against stars such as Shohei Ohtani and Mookie Betts.
Manaea excelled against Ohtani, striking him out twice and forcing a pop-out, with Ohtani finishing the game 0-for-3 with two walks. Reflecting on his success against the likely NL MVP, Manaea remarked, “It’s great, he’s just one of the guys in the lineup. I’m just trying to do my job and put up zeros.”
The Mets swiftly established a 6-0 lead in the second inning, highlighted by Mark Vientos’ grand slam. Manaea acknowledged that while ample run support is helpful, it does not alter his overall strategy on the mound. “I’m still just trying to attack guys and get ahead,” he said. “With a big lead like that it just makes it so you can breathe a little bit.”
With a 6-3 advantage in the eighth inning and two runners on base, manager Carlos Mendoza called upon Diaz to secure the final outs of the game. Diaz executed four consecutive sliders to retire Enrique Hernández and finish the eighth inning strong.
Following the game, Diaz shared, “I was feeling good with my slider today… I made good pitches and got the out in the eighth.” However, Diaz faced challenges in the ninth, allowing a single and walking Ohtani before regaining his composure to secure the last three outs with his fastball.
“I had to keep trusting my stuff,” Diaz reflected. “My fastball was really good today. I think that’s the pitch that can get me out of trouble.”
Diaz also maintained his aggressive approach against Ohtani, noting that despite issuing walks, he continues to challenge top hitters. “I trust my stuff always against any hitters. To him, I just go after him,” he explained.
The NLCS is now tied at 1-1 as the series shifts back to New York for Games 3 through 5. Diaz expressed confidence heading into the next home games, stating, “Going back home, we have a chance to take the series at home… Just continue what we’re doing and we’ll be fine.”