Mets Turn to David Peterson in Elimination Game Against Dodgers

The New York Mets are set to face a crucial Game 5 against the Los Angeles Dodgers in the National League Championship Series, aiming to avoid elimination. Mets manager Carlos Mendoza has announced that left-hander David Peterson will make his first postseason start after appearing in four relief outings.

Peterson, 29, has a season record that highlights his capabilities, having made 21 starts with a 2.90 ERA during the regular season. However, he has not pitched more than three innings since the previous month. Mendoza expressed confidence in Peterson’s ability to perform under pressure. “Facing an elimination game, he’s fully rested,” Mendoza stated. “He’s been one of our starters—one of our best starters. We just feel like he’s going to give us the best chance.”

The Dodgers, leading 3-1 in the best-of-seven series, will counter with veteran right-hander Jack Flaherty. Flaherty impressed in Game 1, where he pitched a shutout over seven innings, allowing only two hits. Dodgers manager Dave Roberts confirmed Flaherty’s readiness, saying, “We just felt that [Friday’s] the day, so he’s lined up.”

The Mets, despite their struggles, are hopeful for a comeback, building on their recent performance in Game 4, which saw them gather 10 hits and three walks but only two runs. This scenario echoes their regular season resilience, where they secured a playoff spot on the last day and mounted a dramatic comeback in the wild-card round.

First baseman Pete Alonso emphasized the team’s resilience, stating, “This group has responded so well to adversity all year.” Shortstop Francisco Lindor also urged teammates to improve their execution with runners on base, saying, “If you don’t have any belief, you shouldn’t be here. You have to fight for what you want. It comes down to one day at a time and executing.”

The Mets will also see some lineup adjustments for Game 5. Jeff McNeil will make his first postseason start, having previously contributed as a pinch hitter. Jesse Winker returns as the designated hitter, moving up in the batting order ahead of Starling Marte. Additionally, Brandon Nimmo is placed in the two-hole, while Mark Vientos, the team’s best hitter this series, shifts to the third position.

As the Mets prepare for their potential last stand against the Dodgers, their strategy is straightforward: strong pitching from Peterson and effective offense to challenge Flaherty, seeking to extend their postseason run.