Blake Treinen, a reliever for the Dodgers, celebrated after securing a scoreless seventh inning during a decisive 10-2 victory against the Mets in Game 2 of the NLCS at Citi Field on Thursday night. (Robert Gauthier / Los Angeles Times)
By the eighth inning, most of the 43,882 fans at Citi Field had made their way out, as the Dodgers surged ahead in the final innings of a 10-2 National League Championship Series Game 4 victory against the New York Mets, bringing them one win closer to the World Series.
However, just two innings prior, the atmosphere was charged; the chants of “Let’s go, Mets!” were growing increasingly louder. The Mets, known for their remarkable comebacks throughout the month, were just one powerful swing away from narrowing the score to one run.
But within just three batters, the stadium fell silent, with only the sound of Grimace, the team’s unofficial mascot, echoing in his purple costume, as the Mets failed to score despite loading the bases with none out against the nearly unassailable Dodgers bullpen.
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“I noticed how quickly Citi Field fell quiet,” said Evan Phillips. “That must have been quite deflating for them. For us to halt that momentum, even with a five-run lead, was significant.”
Phillips, who has not allowed a run in 14 innings across 11 playoff games since 2021, took over for starter Yoshinobu Yamamoto with one out and a runner on first base during the fifth inning, with the Dodgers ahead 5-2.
In his first NLCS game, the right-hander struck out Mark Vientos, who had homered off Yamamoto earlier in the first inning, using a 97-mph fastball, and forced Pete Alonso into an inning-ending forceout.
In the sixth inning, the Dodgers extended their lead to 7-2 thanks to Mookie Betts’ two-run homer. However, the Mets posed a serious threat to chip away at that advantage when Brandon Nimmo and Starling Marte managed to single, followed by a walk issued to J.D. Martinez at the start of the sixth inning.
Mark Prior, the pitching coach, approached the mound to confer with Phillips, who likely didn’t require a reminder about the two grand slams the Mets had already hit this postseason—one from Francisco Lindor in the division series-clinching victory against Philadelphia, and the other from Vientos in New York’s Game 2 triumph over the Dodgers.
Dodgers reliever Evan Phillips converses with pitching coach Mark Prior during the sixth inning on Thursday against the Mets. (Robert Gauthier / Los Angeles Times)
“When Mark came out, it was…”
“There was a moment that allowed me to reset and redirect my focus back to what I need to do, which is to execute pitches and get outs,” Phillips remarked. “He didn’t share anything I wasn’t already aware of, because we’ve been working diligently to devise a solid plan.”
“The main concern was that contact hitters were stepping up to the plate, individuals who are notoriously difficult to get to swing and miss, so the goal was to execute quality pitches and, ideally, come out on the winning side.”
Phillips gained an advantage over Jose Iglesias, delivering two strikes before the Mets second baseman swung and missed at a fastball clocked at 96 mph, aimed up and away.
Pinch-hitter Jeff McNeil managed to foul off four pitches prior to taking a ball on an 85 mph sweeping pitch that dipped below the strike zone. Phillips responded with a 95 mph sinker that came up and in, resulting in McNeil flying out to shallow center field with Nimmo remaining at third base.
With Phillips reaching a pitch count of 34, manager Dave Roberts called upon right-hander Blake Treinen to face pinch-hitter Jesse Winker. Winker connected with a 95 mph fastball, driving a line drive toward the warning track in right field, where Betts made the crucial catch to end the inning.
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“It definitely sounded pretty loud, but I think I just missed the barrel by a small margin,” Treinen noted. “In those situations, the key is not to dwell on the what-ifs but to focus on the batter in the box. Execute your pitches.”
“I definitely got away with one against Winker tonight. With the bases loaded and the score at 7-2, if he had nailed that pitch better, it could have turned into a 7-6 game. Thankfully, it didn’t happen, and I’m relieved we managed to keep the scoreboard clean.”
Treinen, who has been sidelined for much of the past two seasons due to shoulder injuries, delivered a scoreless seventh inning, extending his scoreless streak to 21 innings since August 24. That includes 15 scoreless innings over his last 15 appearances during the regular season and six scoreless innings in five postseason games.
“Sounds like Blake Treinen, doesn’t it?” Phillips remarked. “It’s fantastic to see him returning to his normal form. He’s someone I hold in high regard. He’s battled through a challenging couple of years with injuries and has been working hard to bounce back. This season, we’re starting to witness a revival of that familiar rhythm.”
Phillips, Treinen, and Michael Kopech have mainly handled the high-leverage situations, but collectively the bullpen has only allowed 12 earned runs across 45 innings in nine playoff games, resulting in a 2.40 earned-run average. Excluding the five runs surrendered by starter Landon Knack in his two relief innings during the game…
With a loss margin of 2, the bullpen’s ERA would stand at 1.47.
“What defines our ‘pen culture is how they uplift one another when pitching,” said Roberts. “No matter when they receive the ball, they are always prepared when called upon, and that is incredibly important.”
This relief corps has received notable support from left-handers Alex Vesia and Anthony Banda, as well as right-handers Daniel Hudson and Ryan Brasier, aiding the Dodgers as they approach their 22nd World Series and the fourth in eight years.
“What I appreciate most about our team is the unity we share,” Phillips remarked. “It has been exciting to witness each player contribute this postseason, passing the game along from one to another, no matter the circumstance. Our mindset is that when the phone rings, we simply focus on doing our job and securing outs.”
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This article first appeared in the Los Angeles Times.
Dodgers Bullpen Shuts Down Mets, Paving Path to World Series in Dominant NLCS Victory
Overview of the NLCS Showdown
The National League Championship Series (NLCS) showcased a thrilling face-off between the Los Angeles Dodgers and the New York Mets. With high stakes and passionate fans, the series highlighted the Dodgers’ formidable bullpen that played a pivotal role in securing their advance to the World Series. The Dodgers’ pitching staff, particularly the bullpen, demonstrated exceptional skill and depth, making it clear why they are one of the top contenders for the championship.
Key Highlights of the Series
The NLCS was marked by several standout performances and critical moments. Here are the key highlights:
- Game 1: The Dodgers took an early lead with a dominant pitching performance, restricting the Mets to just two runs.
- Game 2: The bullpen entered in a high-pressure situation, holding the Mets scoreless in the final innings to secure a crucial win.
- Game 5: In a decisive game, the Dodgers’ relief pitchers combined for seven scoreless innings, showcasing their depth and resilience.
Dodgers Bullpen Breakdown
The Dodgers’ bullpen has been a cornerstone of their success throughout the season and the NLCS. Here’s a closer look at the key players who contributed significantly during the series:
| Player | Innings Pitched | Strikeouts | ERA |
|---|---|---|---|
| Kenley Jansen | 4 | 6 | 0.00 |
| Blake Treinen | 3 | 4 | 0.00 |
| Victor Gonzalez | 3 | 3 | 1.50 |
The Dodgers’ bullpen had an impressive collective performance with an ERA of under 1.00, which is rare in playoff baseball. Their ability to maintain pressure on opposing hitters allowed the Dodgers to focus on offensive strategies without worrying about late-game meltdowns.
Strategic Decisions That Made a Difference
Manager Dave Roberts made several strategic decisions that contributed to the Dodgers’ dominance:
– **Utilizing Matchups:** The Dodgers were strategic about their pitching matchups, often bringing in left-handed pitchers against right-handed hitters to exploit weaknesses.
– **Short Leashes for Starters:** Knowing the importance of each game, Roberts did not hesitate to pull starting pitchers early if they struggled, handing the game over to his reliable bullpen.
– **Incorporating Versatile Relievers:** The use of multi-inning relievers allowed for greater flexibility, enabling the Dodgers to manage their pitching staff effectively throughout the series.
Case Study: Game 5’s Pivotal Moments
Game 5 of the NLCS stands out as a testament to the Dodgers’ resilience and strategic prowess. Facing elimination, the Mets were determined to force a Game 6. However, the Dodgers had other plans:
– **Early Offense:** The Dodgers jumped to an early lead, scoring three runs in the first two innings.
– **Bullpen Masterclass:** With a lead in hand, the Dodgers’ bullpen took center stage. Jansen closed out the game with a strikeout, ensuring the Mets would not rally back.
- **Defensive Highlights:** Stellar defensive plays, including a diving catch by the outfielders, contributed to maintaining the lead and shutting down the Mets’ offensive threats.
The Dodgers’ ability to adapt and execute their game plan effectively showcased their championship mentality.
Benefits of a Strong Bullpen
A robust bullpen is essential for any team aspiring to win the World Series. Here are some of the benefits:
- **Increased Flexibility:** A deep bullpen allows managers to make strategic decisions on the fly, adapting to game situations.
– **Reduced Pressure on Starters:** Relievers can share the workload, preserving starting pitchers for critical games.
- **Improved Late-Game Performance:** A strong bullpen can shut down opposing hitters in high-pressure situations, often determining the outcome of close games.
Practical Tips for Building a Winning Bullpen
Teams looking to replicate the Dodgers’ success can consider the following tips for building a robust bullpen:
1. **Invest in Versatility:** Look for pitchers who can excel in various roles, whether as closers, middle relievers, or long relievers.
2. **Focus on Health and Conditioning:** Ensure that relievers maintain peak physical condition to avoid injuries during the long season and playoffs.
3. **Scouting and Analytics:** Utilize advanced analytics to identify potential bullpen pitchers who may thrive in specific situations against particular hitters.
4. **Continuous Development:** Invest in player development programs to enhance the skills of young pitchers who may become future bullpen stars.
First-hand Experience: Insights from Players
Several Dodgers players shared their experiences from the NLCS, reflecting on the importance of teamwork and preparation:
– **Kenley Jansen:** “It’s all about trust in the bullpen. Knowing that my teammates can handle their part allows me to focus on my job.”
– **Blake Treinen:** “We prepare for these moments all season long. Each pitch matters, and we know how to rise to the occasion.”
These insights highlight the camaraderie and preparation that fuels the Dodgers’ success.
Looking Ahead: Dodgers’ World Series Aspirations
With the NLCS victory secured, the Dodgers are now focused on the World Series. Their dominant bullpen, combined with a potent offense, positions them as strong contenders. However, they must remain vigilant against formidable opponents, utilizing their winning strategies from the NLCS.
the Dodgers’ bullpen played an integral role in their NLCS triumph against the Mets, showcasing skill, depth, and strategic excellence. As they push forward in their quest for a World Series title, the lessons learned and experiences gained will undoubtedly shape their journey.
