As the National League Championship Series shifts to New York, so does MLB on FOX analyst John Smoltz, who'll be in Queens to continue covering an even series between the Dodgers and Mets.
Before Game 3, the Hall of Fame pitcher shared his thoughts on a Dodgers Game 2 bullpen game that unraveled on them, what makes Sean Manaea and Game 3 starter Luis Severino so productive this year, whether he'd move Shohei Ohtani out of the leadoff spot, if he thinks certain players are built specifically for October, what's impressed him most through two games and more.
The Mets took Game 2 on Monday night, pulling away in the second inning, when Mark Vientos hit a grand slam, his second in the postseason, and ended the Dodgers' record-tying 33-inning scoreless streak. The game also showcased a dramatic difference in pitching strategies. The Dodgers opted for a bullpen game, while the Mets started Manaea, who is known for his unusual, lower arm slot. The Mets lead the series 1-1.
Mets' Starting Pitching the Advantage
Smoltz believes the Mets have the edge, not only due to their strong starting pitching but also because of the Dodgers' lack of pitching depth.
“The advantage, for sure, goes to the Mets and the starting pitching. That's kind of an obvious, just because of what the Dodgers don't have.”
Both teams have had to deviate from their typical starting pitching plans in this series, and Smoltz believes the Dodgers' Game 2 bullpen strategy was a risky move that backfired.
“You're really seeing managerial decisions based on the early — or lack thereof — execution by both clubs.”
Game 3 Pitching Matchup
With the series even, Game 3 presents a crucial clash between two potent pitchers: Walker Buehler for the Dodgers and Luis Severino for the Mets.
“I think with Severino, he's one of the most dynamic arms in all of baseball.”
Smoltz believes that the Mets have the advantage, with their starting pitching in a good groove, but acknowledges that Buehler can be equally dominant when healthy.
“The Dodgers are going to have two pitchers that when they're healthy, they're equally as dominant as these two pitchers we're talking about.”
Manaea's Unusual Arm Slot a Factor
Sean Manaea's ability to keep Dodgers hitters off balance with his low arm slot proved highly effective in Game 2.
“He's got that fastball that hitters just don't see because the arm angle throws across his body.”
Smoltz believes that Manaea's unusual delivery is key to his success.
“I think the biggest thing for Manaea, my goodness, he's got that fastball that hitters just don't see because the arm angle throws across his body.”
Ohtani's Struggles with Runners on Base
Shohei Ohtani, the Dodgers' superstar, has been struggling with runners in scoring position, a trend Smoltz believes is just a statistical anomaly that will eventually reverse.
“You got to keep him there just because of the threat.”
Smoltz feels Ohtani's ability to get on base is too valuable to move him down in the batting order, despite his recent struggles.
“When he gets on base with nobody on, he's going to be an absolute beast.”
The Importance of Postseason Clutch Play
Smoltz believes that there are certain players who rise to the occasion in the postseason, and some who struggle.
“You can't do that when it comes to the postseason.”
He believes that the pressure of the playoffs brings out the best in some players.
“There are guys whose heartbeat, whose mind, whose concentration goes to the next level, that just doesn't do so in the regular season.”
Dodgers' Mental Toughness a Surprise
Despite the loss in Game 2, Smoltz is impressed by the Dodgers' mental toughness in the face of adversity.
“The thing that has surprised me is not that the Dodgers are built differently, but this attitude, like, we know that all the pressure's on us, but we're going to find a way to win.”
He is intrigued by the Dodgers' new approach and believes they can still overcome their recent struggles.
“It's not part of their DNA. It's like, they're just better, and now they're having to deal with things that other teams are going, ‘Yeah, see, guess what? We got to deal with that, but we don't have the reserves and the quantity. Good luck doing that.’”
Game 3 Preview
The Dodgers and Mets face off in Game 3 on Wednesday night at Citi Field in Queens. The Dodgers are still the slight favorites, but the Mets will be looking to build on their Game 2 momentum and potentially put the Dodgers on the ropes.
With both teams fighting for a spot in the World Series, Game 3 promises to be a tense and exciting clash. Fans will be eager to see how the Dodgers respond to their Game 2 loss, and whether the Mets can maintain their newfound momentum.
Game 3 Preview: Dodgers Look to Avoid Falling Behind
The Dodgers need to bounce back after the disappointing Game 2 loss. They need to find a way to contain the Mets' potent offense and get their own bats going. The pressure is on the Dodgers to win this game and even the series once again. If they fall behind 2-1, it will be an uphill climb to reach the World Series.
Mets Ready to Take Advantage of Dodgers' Weaknesses
The Mets are riding high after their Game 2 victory. They will be looking to capitalize on the Dodgers' pitching woes and put them on the defensive. The Mets have a lot of confidence right now and will be looking to use their momentum to take control of the series.
Who Will Emerge Victorious?
This series has already proven to be a thrilling battle. The Dodgers and Mets are two of the best teams in baseball, and both will be hungry to win. Game 3 could be the turning point in the series, setting the tone for the rest of the NLCS.
Game 3: A Must-Watch Showdown
With the series tied 1-1, Game 3 is a must-watch for any baseball fan. The Dodgers will be looking to regain their footing, while the Mets will be looking to build on their momentum. The stakes are high, and this game could be a pivotal moment in the 2024 NLCS.
