The Los Angeles Dodgers’ strategic choice of employing a bullpen game while having a rested starting pitcher backfired spectacularly against the New York Mets. The Mets capitalized on the Dodgers’ misjudgments, defeating them 7-3.
With the win, the Mets leave Los Angeles with a split in the National League Championship Series, now tied at one game each as they head back to Citi Field for Games 3, 4, and 5 starting Tuesday.
Mets manager Carlos Mendoza expressed excitement about returning to Citi Field, highlighting the energy and support from the fans during the playoffs.
After a tough 9-0 loss in Game 1, the Mets bounced back quickly to deliver a strong performance. Francisco Lindor set the tone by leading off the game with a powerful home run off Dodgers opener Ryan Brasier.
The Dodgers’ approach of intentionally walking Lindor proved costly; it set up Mark Vientos, who hit a grand slam after battling through a tough at-bat. This grand slam contributed significantly to the Mets building a 6-0 lead.
Although the Dodgers managed to cut the deficit to 6-3, they had trouble capitalizing on scoring opportunities, including a crucial moment in the eighth inning when the tying run was at the plate but ultimately flew out.
Mets starter Sean Manaea displayed impressive pitching, allowing only a solo homer to Max Muncy and maintaining control over the Dodgers’ lineup until late in the game despite a shaky defensive performance by his team.
Heading into the series’ next games, the Dodgers plan to revert to a traditional starting approach, with Walker Buehler set to pitch Game 3. The team is optimistic, leaning on their relievers’ capabilities to reinforce their strategy going forward.