Date: Thursday, October 17, 2024

Time: 8:08 PM ET

Location: Citi Field, Queens, New York

The excitement is palpable as the Los Angeles Dodgers and New York Mets prepare to face off in Game 4 of the National League Championship Series. Fans are buzzing with anticipation, eager to see if the Mets can harness their home-field advantage and even the series. After a thrilling back-and-forth in the first three games, this matchup promises to deliver heart-stopping moments and unforgettable plays. With star players on both sides and a chance to swing the momentum, this game is set to be a spectacle that no baseball enthusiast will want to miss.

Current Team Form

Los Angeles Dodgers

The Dodgers came into this game with a strong performance in Game 3, where they decisively defeated the Mets 8-0. Walker Buehler led the charge, throwing four scoreless innings and showcasing his ability to rise to the occasion when it matters most. The offense was electric, highlighted by Shohei Ohtani’s three-run homer and Kiké Hernández’s two-run shot. This victory not only gave them a 2-1 series lead but also demonstrated their resilience after a tough Game 2 loss.

Batting Average (Postseason): .275
Runs Scored: 20 runs over three games
ERA (Pitching): 1.67, showcasing dominant performances from both starters and relievers.

New York Mets

On the other hand, the Mets displayed their fighting spirit in Game 2 with a commanding 7-3 victory. Francisco Lindor kicked off the scoring with a leadoff homer, setting the tone for what became an explosive inning. However, their struggles in Game 3 highlighted vulnerabilities that they must address if they hope to even the series. The Mets’ offense has shown flashes of brilliance but needs consistency against a formidable Dodgers pitching staff.

Batting Average (Postseason): .250
Runs Scored: 13 runs over three games
ERA (Pitching): 4.00, indicating some struggles in keeping opposing teams off the scoreboard.

Notable Injuries

Injuries can significantly impact team performance, and both teams are feeling their effects.

Dodgers

Gavin Stone (Shoulder) – Out
Tyler Glasnow (Elbow) – Out
Clayton Kershaw (Toe) – Out

The absence of these key arms could challenge their depth as they navigate through this critical series.

Mets

Dedniel Nunez (Forearm) – Out
Sean Reid-Foley (Shoulder) – Out

While both teams are dealing with injuries, the Dodgers’ missing pitchers may create opportunities for the Mets’ offense to capitalize.

Total Runs Prediction: Over 7

Considering various predictive models and statistical insights, there’s strong reasoning to expect more than seven total runs in this game:

ESPN: Predicts a score of Dodgers 5, Mets 4.
SportsLine: Projects an average score of Dodgers 4.5, Mets 3.5.
BetQL: Indicates value on over 7 total runs based on recent offensive trends.
FiveThirtyEight: Favors a high-scoring affair with both teams showing offensive capabilities.
Action Network: Highlights trends suggesting that both teams will find ways to score given their recent performances.

Matchup Analysis: Starting Pitchers

Jose Quintana (Mets)

Record: 0-0, ERA: 0.00 in playoffs
Quintana has been reliable but has struggled historically against the Dodgers with a postseason ERA of 10.29 in previous appearances.

Yoshinobu Yamamoto (Dodgers)

Record: 1-0, ERA: 5.63 in playoffs
Yamamoto has shown flashes of brilliance but also inconsistency, which could open doors for Mets hitters if he falters early.

Team Offensive and Defensive Capabilities

The Dodgers have demonstrated an ability to score runs in bunches, evidenced by their offensive outburst in Game 3. With power hitters like Ohtani and Muncy leading the charge, they pose a significant threat to any pitching staff.

Conversely, while the Mets have had moments of brilliance at the plate—such as Lindor’s explosive start—they need more consistent production throughout their lineup to keep pace with Los Angeles.

Final Prediction

As we look ahead to this pivotal Game 4 at Citi Field, it’s clear that both teams have much at stake. The Dodgers aim to extend their series lead while the Mets look to regain momentum on home turf.

Given all factors considered—the current form of each team, key statistics, injury reports, and predictive models—it appears likely that we’ll see more than seven total runs scored in this matchup. The offensive capabilities of both teams combined with their recent performances suggest an exciting game filled with scoring opportunities.

So as you settle in for what promises to be an electrifying contest tonight at Citi Field, keep an eye on those bats! Expect fireworks as both teams vie for supremacy in this high-stakes playoff atmosphere!

PICK: over 7 total runs WIN