The Los Angeles Dodgers put on a commanding performance in the NL Championship Series opener, defeating the New York Mets 9-0. The Dodgers' pitching staff shined, combining for a three-hitter and tying the postseason record with 33 consecutive scoreless innings.
Jack Flaherty led the way with a stellar outing, allowing only two hits over seven innings. This marked the Dodgers' first scoreless postseason start of seven-plus innings since Clayton Kershaw's performance in the 2020 NL Wild Card Series.
Offensively, Shohei Ohtani was a standout player, going 2 for 4 with a walk, scoring two runs, and driving in another. Mookie Betts also made a significant impact with a three-run double in the eighth inning.
The Dodgers' shutout victory over the Mets was not only their largest shutout margin in postseason history but also the most one-sided shutout defeat for the Mets in the postseason.
The sellout crowd of 53,503 at Dodger Stadium showed their appreciation for Flaherty's performance with a standing ovation as he left the game. The 28-year-old right-hander has been a key addition to the Dodgers' rotation since joining the team at the trade deadline.
Looking ahead, the Mets will turn to Sean Manaea to start Game 2 after his impressive performance in the NL Division Series. This will be the first time the Dodgers face a left-handed starter in this postseason.
The Dodgers' strong start in the NL Championship Series comes after a dramatic comeback in the NL Division Series against the San Diego Padres. With their eyes set on a record 25th NL pennant, the Dodgers are off to a promising start in their pursuit of postseason success.
Game 2 of the best-of-seven series is set for Monday, where both teams will look to make adjustments and continue their quest for a spot in the World Series.
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