The Los Angeles Dodgers and New York Mets will face off in Game 3 of the National League Championship Series at Citi Field on Wednesday night. With the series tied 1-1, both teams are looking to take a crucial lead in the best-of-seven showdown. The Dodgers, coming off a 98-win regular season, have faced significant challenges in the playoffs, while the Mets have displayed remarkable resilience throughout the year.
Both teams are dealing with injuries and pitching uncertainties, setting the stage for a pivotal game under the bright lights of Citi Field.
Mets Rely on Resilience and Power
The New York Mets, managed by Carlos Mendoza, have shown they can bounce back from tough situations. In their 7-3 victory on Monday, Mark Vientos provided the decisive blow with a grand slam in the second inning. Francisco Lindor set the tone early by hitting a leadoff home run to end the Dodgers’ streak of 33 consecutive scoreless innings.
The Mets’ journey to the NLCS has been filled with ups and downs. After struggling early in the season, the Mets secured a playoff spot on the final day of September and survived a close wild-card series against the Milwaukee Brewers. With their backs against the wall, Pete Alonso delivered a three-run homer that kept their season alive. New York’s ability to stay competitive will be critical as they face a talented Dodgers team.
Starting pitcher Luis Severino will take the mound for the Mets. He is 1-0 in the playoffs with a 4.50 ERA, but he has struggled historically against the Dodgers, posting a 10.50 ERA in two appearances.
Dodgers Deal with Pitching Challenges
The Dodgers come into Game 3 with a thin pitching staff, missing key arms like Gavin Stone, Tyler Glasnow, and Clayton Kershaw due to injuries. In Monday’s loss, Los Angeles turned to reliever Ryan Brasier as an opener, followed by several low-leverage relievers. The rotation remains in flux, but Walker Buehler will get the start in Game 3, aiming to bounce back from a tough postseason debut where he allowed six runs in five innings.
Buehler has a 3.40 ERA in his postseason career but has been inconsistent against the Mets, with a 5.00 ERA over five starts. With injuries limiting their depth, the Dodgers will rely on Buehler to provide length and stability.
Freddie Freeman, who missed the final game of the NLDS due to an ankle injury, is expected to play, along with the Mets’ Brandon Nimmo, who is dealing with plantar fasciitis.
Prediction: Mets Take the Lead
The Mets’ resilience and ability to deliver timely hits have defined their postseason run. With Lindor and Vientos leading the offense and Severino capable of keeping the game close, New York has a good chance to edge the Dodgers in Game 3. Los Angeles has struggled with pitching depth, and unless Buehler can regain his form, the Mets could capitalize on the opportunity to take the series lead.
Pick: Mets Moneyline -110
