Wed Oct 16 23:40:00 UTC 2024: ## Dodgers Dominate Mets in NLCS Opener, Flaherty Shines in Return Home
**LOS ANGELES** – The Los Angeles Dodgers opened their National League Championship Series with a resounding 9-0 victory over the New York Mets Sunday night, extending their postseason scoreless streak to an impressive 33 innings, tying a Major League record.
The victory was fueled by a dominant pitching performance from Jack Flaherty, who made his return to Southern California after being traded from the Detroit Tigers in July. Flaherty, a native of Burbank, pitched seven scoreless innings, allowing only two hits and striking out six batters.
“It was just a pitching clinic,” said Dodgers manager Dave Roberts. “He did a great job of filling up the strike zone with his complete mix. Once we caught a lead, he did a great job of just going after those guys and attacking.”
The Dodgers offense also came alive, chasing Mets starter Kodai Senga after just 1 1/3 innings. Senga struggled with his command, walking four of the first eight batters he faced. The Dodgers capitalized on his struggles, scoring six runs before the end of the fourth inning.
Mookie Betts highlighted the offensive attack with a three-run double in the eighth inning, leading to the largest shutout margin in Dodgers postseason history.
“Our energy all started with Jack,” Betts said. “Jack really gave it to us today.”
The win sets the stage for a crucial Game 2 on Monday, where the Dodgers will likely employ a bullpen game against Mets left-handed starter Sean Manaea. The series heads back to New York for Games 3-5.
With Flaherty’s strong performance, the Dodgers demonstrated their depth and pitching prowess, showcasing their readiness for a deep postseason run. The reigning NL West champions are now just three wins away from their second consecutive World Series appearance.
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