BREAKING: Mets’ Francisco Lindor issues strong demand after frustrating Game 3 vs. Dodgers
The New York Mets struggled in hosting Game 3 of the National League Championship Series against the Los Angeles Dodgers, falling 8-0 in a game that highlighted their inability to capitalize in crucial moments. Shohei Ohtani’s three-run homer helped power the Dodgers to victory, putting the Wild Card Mets on the back foot in the series.
Mets shortstop Francisco Lindor didn’t mince words when reflecting on the team’s shortcomings, particularly with runners in scoring position.
“When we have people on base, we have got to execute,” Lindor said, via SNY. “That’s what it comes down to really. They executed their pitches when we had people on base. We didn’t. I did not execute. We’ve got to execute with runners in scoring position. That’s part of the game. You tip your hat today and hope to come back better tomorrow.”
The Dodgers, meanwhile, dominated on the mound, with Walker Buehler and four relievers combining for a four-hit shutout—LA’s fourth shutout in their last five postseason games. Buehler was exceptional, racking up 18 swings-and-misses while cruising through seven innings of scoreless ball.
“I like pitching in the cold,” Buehler said, reflecting on the cooler weather conditions. “The ball was moving around pretty good for me today. Will [Smith] did a really good job. Shutouts in playoffs don’t come easy, and Will did a really good job.”
Dodgers manager Dave Roberts was encouraged by his team’s pitching performance, which has become a defining strength during their postseason run.
Mets might need a miracle in NLCS vs. Dodgers
The New York Mets made a few great defensive plays in Game 3, but those efforts were overshadowed by missed opportunities at the plate and the dominance of the Dodgers’ pitching staff. Francisco Lindor’s missed chance with the bases loaded in the second inning—striking out on three pitches from Walker Buehler—proved to be a pivotal moment. After that, the Dodgers never looked back, steadily building their lead en route to an 8-0 shutout.
Now, the Mets face a daunting task in Game 4. The Dodgers will turn to their high-priced international rookie Yoshinobu Yamamoto, while the Mets counter with veteran left-hander Jose Quintana. To avoid falling into a 3-1 series hole, the Mets must find a way to break through against Yamamoto and capitalize on any opportunities they get. A win is crucial if they want to keep their hopes alive in this NLCS matchup.