Mets Seek to Extend NLCS Against Injury-Plagued Dodgers

The New York Mets are facing elimination in the National League Championship Series (NLCS) against the Los Angeles Dodgers, but they have a glimmer of hope as they head to Dodger Stadium for Game 6. The Mets will send their ace, Sean Manaea, to the mound, while the Dodgers' starting pitcher remains uncertain due to multiple injuries in their rotation.

Mets Aim to Capitalize on Dodgers' Pitching Woes

Mets Offense Comes Alive in Game 5

The Mets' offense erupted in Game 5, with Pete Alonso setting the tone early by crushing a three-run homer in the first inning. The team followed up with five more runs in the third inning, leading to a 12-6 victory and sending the series back to Los Angeles. This offensive outburst has given the Mets a glimmer of hope as they look to extend the series and potentially advance to the World Series.

Manaea's Experience Against Dodgers Lineup

Sean Manaea, the Mets' Game 6 starter, has a wealth of experience facing the Dodgers' potent lineup. Having spent the first eight years of his career on the West Coast, Manaea is familiar with the Dodgers' top hitters, including Shohei Ohtani and Mookie Betts. Manaea has managed to keep Ohtani in check, limiting him to just two hits in 10 at-bats with four strikeouts and one RBI. The left-hander's handedness could prove to be a significant advantage against the Dodgers' lineup.

Dodgers' Bullpen Uncertainty

The Dodgers' bullpen has been a source of concern in the NLCS, with a 3.65 ERA and a higher FIP of 4.10. This suggests the potential for regression, similar to what was seen during the regular season when the Dodgers' bullpen had a 3.53 ERA and a 4.05 FIP. With the Dodgers' manager, Dave Roberts, considering using an opener and potentially resting Freddie Freeman, the Mets may have an opportunity to capitalize on the Dodgers' pitching uncertainty.

Mets' Underdog Status Provides Value

Despite the Dodgers being the better team, backing them at -140 or higher is a steep price to pay, given the uncertainty surrounding their pitching and lineup. The Mets, as +124 underdogs, present more value in this matchup. With the possibility of the Dodgers taking a more cautious approach to managing their pitchers, the Mets have a better chance of pulling out a victory and extending the series.

High-Scoring Series Trend Favors Mets

The NLCS has been a high-scoring affair, with each game going over the total. Both teams have hit big home runs, and there's no reason to believe the Mets can't continue this trend against the Dodgers' bullpen in Game 6. The Mets' offense has shown its ability to capitalize on opportunities, and they will look to do so again in this crucial matchup.