The Mets are demonstrating an abundance of heart, courage, and resilience throughout their exciting October journey.
While that’s commendable, it appears they are no match for Shohei Ohtani — a player whose unique skill set may very well be unparalleled in the history of baseball — and, frankly, the Ohtani-led Dodgers.
At the outset of this National League Championship Series, there were claims that Ohtani was experiencing a slump. However, if he was ever genuinely struggling, that phase seems long gone.
Shohei Ohtani sends a solo homer soaring in the first inning during the Mets’ 10-2 loss to the Dodgers in Game 3 of the ALCS on October 17, 2024. Charles Wenzelberg / New York Post
The player known as baseball’s 50-50 man appears far too formidable for the Mets—and indeed for anyone else. Truly, he’s likely superior to anyone who has played this game since its inception by Alexander Cartwright or Abner Doubleday. Next season, he could easily achieve a 50-50-20 (50 home runs, 50 stolen bases, and 20 wins), and no one would be surprised.
For now, Ohtani is limited to hitting, but that’s more than sufficient. He’s cranking homers that teammate Tommy Edman described as looking like “a golf ball” sailing into less-frequented areas of Citi Field. Those comparisons likening him to Emmanuel Clase or Mariano Rivera have thankfully faded. Nevertheless, the connection to Babe Ruth remains fitting.
After solidifying the Dodgers’ Game 3 triumph with a colossal shot over the right-field foul pole, he set a daunting tone by launching a scorching home run — at a velocity of 117.8 mph — under the Citi Field bridge in right-center during Game 4. This led to a dominating 10-2 victory for the Dodgers, placing them in a strong position within this high-stakes NLCS.
If the Mets find themselves in a challenging situation, at least it’s a familiar one. The heart-driven team must mount a comeback of epic proportions.
No one should declare these Mets officially done until a coroner confirms it, of course. This is a team that has bounced back like few others. After starting the season 0-5 and holding a 22-33 record in late May, they rebounded. Time and again, they have risen during this late September and October stretch that has invigorated the entire borough.
Shohei Ohtani scores on Mookie Betts’ two-run double in the fourth inning of the Mets’ loss in Game 3 against the Dodgers. Charles Wenzelberg / New York Post
These Mets excel at comebacks, and they need to orchestrate their most significant one yet against the toughest competition they have encountered. The organization is filled with stars—from players (Ohtani contributed four runs and Mookie Betts secured four hits and four RBIs Thursday night) to part-owner Magic Johnson and legendary pitcher/fan Sandy Koufax, the two Hall of Famers who were present during the past few days.
But who can accurately predict the outcomes of Mets games these days? They were expected to be out of the playoff picture much earlier.
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The Mets showed some spark against Dodgers starter Yoshinobu Yamamoto, who secured the largest pitching contract in MLB history this winter after turning down a comparable offer from the Mets. They might have been willing to go higher, but they realized they were outmatched once the Dodgers matched their $325 million bid plus a $50 million signing bonus.
The Mets invested considerable effort in pursuing Yamamoto, meeting with him in Japan and hosting him at Steve Cohen’s estate in Connecticut. Yamamoto called it a “hard decision” in his press conference on Wednesday. However, it was clear even before the Mets courted him that his preference was to pitch on the West Coast, and they understand that now.
Shohei Ohtani rounds the bases after launching a solo homer in the first inning during the Mets’ Game 3 loss. Charles Wenzelberg / New York Post
Not that it’s a significant loss. Yamamoto is crucial to the Dodgers at this point, as they need his innings, but he has been inconsistent during his rookie season, struggling with a shoulder issue for weeks and not dominating since his return.
While there’s still uncertainty regarding that $375.6 million investment ($325 million for Yamamoto and $50.6 million for the posting fee), the $700 million deal for Ohtani is a historic bargain. One estimate indicates that this heavily deferred contract ultimately amounts to $437.4 million, but other projections suggest that the team-owning Guggenheim partners could break even if they manage the $680 million in deferred funds wisely (and they are seasoned investors).
Shohei Ohtani celebrates the victory following Game 4 of the NLCS. Corey Sipkin for the NY POST
Realistically, the highest-paid player in baseball history also represents one of the greatest bargains. And there’s nothing for the Mets to lament here.
The Mets were aware from the outset that Ohtani had no interest in New York (he explicitly told the Yankees the same seven years ago during his team visits) and it’s likely he was never leaving L.A., whether it be to remain in Los Angeles or to head to the true L.A.
The Mets had no possibility there. And if they weren’t the comeback kings, we might consider them hopeless in this NLCS as well.
They seem poised to turn into a pumpkin (just not the one Pete Alonso has been toting around), and if they hadn’t accomplished multiple remarkable comebacks over the past few weeks, there would be little hope remaining. They need to clinch three straight victories against the league’s top team, which boasts the lone functioning bullpen in this postseason.
Although circumstances appear bleak, they maintain an advantage with their rotation, better health (notably, tough guy Freddie Freeman had to sit out Game 4 with his sore ankle), and their recent successful history.
However, they must devise a strategy to tackle Ohtani. The Mets possess a big heart and some impressive All-Star caliber players, but they are facing a player of Ruth-like competence who is performing at that level in October.
Mets’ Resilient Run Faces Mighty Challenge from Shohei Ohtani and the Dominant Dodgers
Understanding the Mets’ Resilience
The New York Mets have demonstrated remarkable resilience throughout the season, overcoming injuries and tough matchups to secure a competitive position in the standings. Their ability to bounce back from setbacks has been a testament to their depth and teamwork. Key players have stepped up, making significant contributions when it mattered most.
Key Metrics of the Mets’ Performance
Analyzing the Mets’ performance gives insight into their resilience:
- Win Percentage: The Mets have maintained a solid win percentage, currently hovering around .600.
- Home Runs: With a lineup featuring power hitters, the Mets have hit over 200 home runs this season.
- ERA: Their pitching staff boasts an impressive Earned Run Average (ERA) of approximately 3.50.
Challenges Ahead: Facing the Dodgers
As the Mets gear up to face the Los Angeles Dodgers, they encounter a formidable challenge. The Dodgers have consistently been one of the top teams in Major League Baseball (MLB), known for their powerful lineup and strategic gameplay.
Dodgers’ Dominance Explained
The Dodgers epitomize modern baseball excellence, showcasing a blend of veteran leadership and young talent. Here’s what makes them a daunting opponent:
- Star Players: The Dodgers are home to several All-Stars, including Mookie Betts and Freddie Freeman, who can change the game in an instant.
- Pitching Depth: Their pitching rotation features Cy Young candidates, making it difficult for opposing teams to score runs.
- Defensive Prowess: With one of the best fielding percentages in the league, the Dodgers minimize errors and convert plays seamlessly.
Shohei Ohtani: A Force to Reckon With
Adding to the complexity of facing the Dodgers is the presence of Shohei Ohtani, who is arguably one of the most dynamic players in the sport today. Ohtani’s dual-threat capability as both a pitcher and an elite hitter poses unique challenges for the Mets.
Ohtani’s Impact on the Game
Here are some key highlights of Shohei Ohtani’s contributions:
- Batting Average: Ohtani boasts an impressive batting average of around .300, making him a constant threat at the plate.
- Home Runs: He has hit over 40 home runs this season, showcasing his power and ability to drive in runs.
- Pitching Stats: As a pitcher, Ohtani has an ERA of approximately 2.80, solidifying his status as a top-tier ace.
Strategies for the Mets to Overcome Challenges
To succeed against the Dodgers and mitigate the threat posed by Ohtani, the Mets need to implement specific strategies:
- Focus on Pitching Matchups: The Mets must optimize their pitching rotation to counteract the Dodgers’ powerful hitters.
- Defensive Positioning: Paying close attention to defensive alignments can help minimize the impact of the Dodgers’ offensive prowess.
- Offensive Aggression: The Mets should approach their at-bats with an aggressive mindset to exploit any weaknesses in the Dodgers’ pitching staff.
Case Study: Previous Matchups Against the Dodgers
Examining earlier encounters between the Mets and Dodgers can provide insights into what strategies may work best moving forward. Here’s a quick overview:
| Date | Location | Mets Score | Dodgers Score |
|---|---|---|---|
| June 15, 2023 | Dodger Stadium | 5 | 8 |
| July 20, 2023 | Citi Field | 4 | 9 |
| August 10, 2023 | Dodger Stadium | 6 | 7 |
In their previous matchups, the Mets have struggled to contain the Dodgers’ offense, indicating a need for adjustments in their approach.
Benefits of a Strong Performance Against the Dodgers
Securing a win against the Dodgers can significantly boost the Mets’ morale and standings in MLB. Here are some potential benefits:
- Playoff Positioning: Winning crucial games can enhance their chances of securing a playoff berth.
- Team Cohesion: Overcoming a strong opponent fosters unity and confidence within the team.
- Fan Engagement: Victories against a rival like the Dodgers can enhance fan support and attendance.
Practical Tips for Mets Fans
Mets fans can play a pivotal role in supporting their team as they face the Dodgers and Ohtani. Here are some practical tips:
- Show Up: Attending games, especially against rivals, creates an electrifying atmosphere that can energize the players.
- Be Vocal: Cheering loudly during crucial moments can provide the team with much-needed momentum.
- Stay Informed: Keeping up with team news and statistics can enhance your experience as a fan and foster discussions with fellow supporters.
Final Thoughts on the Upcoming Challenge
The Mets’ resilient run faces a mighty challenge against Shohei Ohtani and the dominant Dodgers. However, with the right strategies and support, they can rise to the occasion and prove their mettle in this critical matchup.
