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Mets and Dodgers Ready for Battle in NLCS Game 3
The National League Championship Series (NLCS) between the New York Mets and Los Angeles Dodgers has been a back-and-forth affair, with both teams winning one game apiece. As Game 3 approaches on Wednesday night in New York, the stakes couldn’t be higher as both teams look to take control of this best-of-seven series.
Pitching Showdown: Severino vs. Buehler
For the Mets, Luis Severino will take the mound, hoping to improve on his postseason performance so far. He’s posted a 1-0 record with a 4.50 ERA in the playoffs, but his overall postseason struggles (2-4, 5.01 ERA in 13 appearances) are cause for concern. Severino will have to bring his best against a potent Dodgers lineup, especially given his rough history against Los Angeles.
On the other side, Walker Buehler will pitch for the Dodgers. Buehler, a proven playoff performer, had a rough outing in the NLDS but is known for delivering in high-pressure games. He’ll need to rebound and go deep into this one, as the Dodgers’ bullpen has been tested after injuries thinned their rotation.
Mets’ Resilience on Display
The Mets have been one of the most resilient teams in baseball this year. After a blowout loss in Game 1, they came roaring back in Game 2 behind Francisco Lindor’s leadoff homer and Mark Vientos’ grand slam. The Mets’ never-say-die attitude has been key to their playoff success, and their confidence is growing.
“We’ve done it the whole year. We got punched, we found a way to get back up,” said Mets manager Carlos Mendoza. “It’s going to be a fun series—a lot of back-and-forth, two really good teams.”
Dodgers’ Challenges and Key Returns
The Dodgers have had to deal with injuries to their pitching staff, and their bullpen has been under heavy usage. Walker Buehler will need to provide length in this game to give the relievers some relief.
One bright spot for Los Angeles is the return of Freddie Freeman, who missed Game 4 of the NLDS due to an ankle injury. Freeman is one of the Dodgers’ most consistent hitters and will be vital as they aim to retake the series lead.
Key Matchups to Watch
1. Severino vs. Dodgers’ Bats
Severino has had a tough time in the postseason, and his shaky history against the Dodgers could spell trouble. Look for the Dodgers to be aggressive early, trying to jump on Severino before the Mets’ bullpen can take over.
2. Buehler vs. Mets’ Power
Buehler will face a Mets lineup that has shown they can produce big innings quickly. Sluggers like Pete Alonso and Francisco Lindor will be crucial in whether the Mets can get to Buehler early and force the Dodgers into another bullpen game.
3. Bullpen Depth
If either starter falters, this game will come down to bullpen management. The Mets’ relief corps has been solid, but they’ll need to be sharp to navigate the middle innings.
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Game 3 Outlook
Game 3 could be the turning point in this series, with both teams looking to grab momentum. The Mets, playing at home in front of a packed Citi Field, have the resilience and offensive firepower to capitalize on any mistakes. The Dodgers, with Buehler on the mound and Freeman returning, will be determined to quiet the crowd and take control of the series.
Prediction: Mets 6, Dodgers 5
In a game that could turn into a bullpen battle, the Mets’ ability to come through with timely hits and their home-field advantage give them a slight edge. Expect a tightly contested game with both teams trading blows throughout.
