Dodgers vs. Mets: A Crucial Game 4 in the NLCS
The stakes couldn’t be higher as the Los Angeles Dodgers (98-64) bring a 2-1 lead into Game 4 of the National League Championship Series (NLCS) against the New York Mets (89-73) this Thursday night. Scheduled for an 8:08 PM ET first pitch at Citi Field, both teams are feeling the pressure, especially the Mets, who are looking to even the series. With a combination of fierce competition, high stakes, and standout pitching matchups, fans are in for an electrifying game.
A Look at the Game 4 Matchup
Coming off two convincing shutout victories in the series, the Dodgers appear to be in a commanding position. They are set to start rookie sensation Yoshinobu Yamamoto, who will face off against New York’s experienced left-hander Jose Quintana. This pitching duel will be key to determining the outcome of Game 4.
Dodgers vs. Mets Odds
The current odds reflect the Dodgers’ slight favor as road favorites at -135, while the Mets sit as underdogs at +115. The runline is also telling, with the Dodgers at -1.5 (+125) and the Mets at +1.5 (-150), indicating betting confidence that if the Dodgers win, they will do so by more than one run.
| Team | Moneyline | Runline | Total |
|---|---|---|---|
| Los Angeles | -135 | -1.5 (+125) | O 7.0 (-120) |
| New York | +115 | +1.5 (-150) | U 7.0 (-100) |
Pitching Preview: Yamamoto vs. Quintana
Yoshinobu Yamamoto
The 23-year-old Yamamoto has had a standout rookie season with a record of 7-2 and a solid 3.00 ERA. His performance has been uneven, with an impressive postseason turnaround after a rough start against the Padres. In a decisive Game 5, he limited the opposition to just two hits, delivering a five-inning gem. While his initial outing against the Mets was mediocre, this matchup represents not just another game, but a chance for redemption on a grand stage.
Jose Quintana
Quintana, on the other hand, has been a revelation for the Mets in the postseason. He boasts a stellar 0.82 ERA across two playoff starts, allowing just one unearned run in 11 innings coupled with 11 strikeouts. However, the Dodgers’ lineup is historically tough on him, having a collective batting average of .299 over 154 at-bats. His tendency to keep the ball in the park—a factor that has saved him so far—will be put to the test.
Public Betting Trends
Recent public betting trends show overwhelming support for the Dodgers. As of 1:25 PM ET on Thursday, an impressive 89% of the moneyline handle is on the Dodgers, with 79% of the runline handle also backing them to win by two or more runs. This public confidence suggests a strong belief in the Dodgers’ ability to extend their series lead.
| Team | Moneyline | ML Handle % | ML Bet % | Runline | RL Handle % | RL Bet % | Run Total | O/U Handle % | O/U Bet % |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Los Angeles | -135 | 89% | 81% | -1.5 (+125) | 79% | 85% | O 7.0 | 59% | 78% |
| New York | +115 | 11% | 19% | +1.5 (-150) | 21% | 15% | U 7.0 | 41% | 22% |
Predictions for Game 4
While Jose Quintana’s recent postseason success is commendable, history suggests that he might struggle against the Dodgers’ formidable lineup. The team knows how to capitalize on his pitching, and with the Dodgers demonstrating dominant offensive skills thus far in the postseason, they are likely to find a way to put runs on the board. Conversely, while Yamamoto may not be bulletproof, his unfamiliarity to the Mets could work in his favor.
Given the Dodgers’ superior performance in the bullpen throughout the playoffs (2.75 ERA compared to the Mets’ 4.76 ERA), and their ability to win by a clear margin, the general consensus is that the Dodgers will come out on top.
Verdict: Bet on the Dodgers: The moneyline at -135 reflects great value given their recent form and successful track record against Quintana.
As fans prepare for Game 4, anticipation builds for another exhilarating installment in this epic playoff battle. Will the Dodgers extend their lead, or can the Mets turn the tide? Only time will tell!
