Mets vs Dodgers Preview, Prediction, Players to Watch, Rosters and More
by Sona | Updated Jul 14, 2023
Mets vs Dodgers
The Mets vs. Dodgers matchup is highly anticipated due to the history between these two teams. The Mets have a rich baseball tradition in New York, and the Dodgers, formerly based in Brooklyn, moved to Los Angeles in 1958. The Mets filled the void left by the departure of the Dodgers and became a beloved team in New York.
Both teams have experienced their share of highs and lows this season. The Mets recently went on a 6-game winning streak, showing signs of improvement and sparking excitement among fans. Meanwhile, the Dodgers have been consistently strong, sitting tied for the top spot in the NL West. This matchup carries added significance due to the historical connection between the two franchises.
It's a clash between a former New York team and the one that emerged to fill the void they left behind. The Mets will be eager to prove themselves against a perennially strong Dodgers team, while the Dodgers will be looking to assert their dominance and maintain their position atop the division. It promises to be an intriguing battle between two teams with different histories but shared baseball legacies.
Mets vs Dodgers Preview
In the lead-up to the Mets vs. Dodgers matchup, the Mets showcased a promising performance with a 6-game winning streak. Although they faltered in their last two games before the All-Star break, there is a renewed sense of confidence surrounding the team. The players and fans alike are optimistic about the team's potential going forward.
On the other side, the Dodgers head into the second half of the season tied for first place in the highly competitive NL West division. They have been a consistently strong team over the years, and their position at the top of the standings is a testament to their talent and depth. The Dodgers will be aiming to build on their success and maintain their winning ways.
Both teams will be looking to carry their momentum from the first half of the season into this matchup. The break provided an opportunity for rest and reflection, and now they have a chance to come out strong in the second half. With the added anticipation of facing each other, the Mets and Dodgers will be eager to make a statement and secure a victory. It sets the stage for an intriguing battle between two teams seeking to make their mark in the second half of the season.
Mets vs Dodgers Prediction
Based on recent form and the potential for both pitchers to rebound after the All-Star break, the prediction leans towards a Mets victory in their home stadium. The Mets showed promising signs of improvement before the break, which could give them an edge in this matchup. Julio Urías and Justin Verlander, despite their struggles this season, have proven track records of high-level performance, and the rest provided by the break might rejuvenate their performances.
Considering these factors, along with the expectation of a relatively low-scoring game with the total runs staying under 8.5, the prediction favors the Mets. However, it's important to acknowledge that sports predictions always involve a level of uncertainty, and outcomes can vary.
Mets vs Dodgers Odds
According to the odds, the Mets enter the matchup as slight underdogs with +105 odds, meaning a $100 bet on the Mets would yield a $105 profit if they win. On the other hand, the Dodgers are the favorites with -125 odds, indicating that a $125 bet on the Dodgers would be required to earn a $100 profit if they come out victorious. These odds reflect the bookmakers' perception of the Dodgers as the stronger team.
However, being a home game for the Mets, they have the advantage of playing in familiar surroundings and having the support of their home crowd. This gives them a chance to defy the odds and potentially pull off an upset.
The over/under for total runs scored in the game is set at 8.5. The odds for the under are -105, indicating that a $105 bet on the under would yield a $100 profit if the total runs scored in the game stay below 8.5. Conversely, the odds for the over are -115, meaning a $115 bet on the over would be required to earn a $100 profit if the total runs scored exceed 8.5.
These odds suggest that the bookmakers anticipate a relatively low-scoring game, potentially indicating that both teams' pitching staffs are expected to perform well or that the offenses may struggle to generate runs. However, it's important to note that odds can change leading up to the game based on various factors, including line movement and betting patterns.
Mets vs Dodgers Players to Watch
Mets Key Players to Watch
Justin Verlander (Starting Pitcher)
As a seasoned veteran, Verlander brings a wealth of experience to the Mets' pitching rotation. With a record of 3-4, he will be looking to showcase his skills and lead the team from the mound in this important matchup against the Dodgers.
Francisco Lindor (Shortstop)
Lindor is a dynamic player known for his power and speed. With 20 doubles, two triples, 19 home runs, and 36 walks, he possesses the ability to impact the game in multiple offensive categories. Lindor's performance on both offense and defense will be crucial for the Mets.
Pete Alonso (First Baseman)
Alonso has been a significant power threat for the Mets, leading the team with 26 home runs and 61 runs batted in. His raw power can change the course of the game with a single swing, and his presence in the lineup adds an intimidating element for opposing pitchers.
Brandon Nimmo (Center Fielder)
Nimmo has been a consistent performer for the Mets, boasting a team-best batting average of .266. His ability to get on base consistently and provide a spark at the top of the lineup will be essential in setting the tone for the Mets' offense.
Jeff McNeil (Second Baseman)
Despite a slightly lower batting average of .253, McNeil has displayed his offensive contribution with 13 doubles, a triple, three home runs, and 27 walks. Known for his versatility and ability to make contact, McNeil will be a key player to watch for the Mets.
Dodgers Key Players to Watch
Julio Urías (Starting Pitcher)
Urías takes the mound for the Dodgers, aiming to deliver a strong performance in his 13th start of the season. Despite some struggles, Urías has the talent and potential to make a significant impact and lead the team from the pitching position.
Mookie Betts (Right Fielder)
Betts is a standout player for the Dodgers, leading the team in home runs (26) and runs batted in (62) while maintaining a batting average of .276. His combination of power, speed, and overall hitting ability makes him a major threat to opposing pitchers.
Freddie Freeman (First Baseman)
Freeman has been a consistent performer for the Dodgers, leading the team with a batting average of .323. Known for his ability to hit for average and provide stability in the lineup, Freeman's contributions will be crucial for the team's offensive success.
Will Smith (Catcher)
Smith has been a reliable contributor for the Dodgers, collecting 65 base hits and displaying an impressive on-base percentage of .396. With a slugging percentage of .494, he possesses the ability to drive the ball and produce extra-base hits, adding depth to the team's lineup.
J.D. Martinez (Designated Hitter)
Martinez leads the Dodgers in runs batted in with 62 and has showcased his power with 22 home runs. While maintaining a batting average of .255, he possesses the ability to drive in runs and make an impact in key situations.
These key players from both teams have the potential to influence the outcome of the game with their individual skills and contributions. Their performances on the mound, at the plate, and in the field will be crucial in determining the success of their respective teams.
Mets vs Dodgers Rosters
In the Mets lineup, Brandon Nimmo, Jeff McNeil, and Brett Baty are left-handed hitters, while Tommy Pham, Pete Alonso, Starling Marte, Francisco Álvarez, and Mark Canha bat from the right side. Francisco Lindor is a switch-hitter, capable of batting from both the left and right sides.
For the Dodgers, Mookie Betts, Will Smith, Miguel Rojas, and Johnny Deluca are right-handed hitters, while Freddie Freeman, Max Muncy, and JD Martinez are left-handed hitters. Mario Vargas and Jaden Outman bat from the right side.
Mets Rosters
Mets Starting Lineup
Position
Handedness
Brandon Nimmo
CF
Left-handed
Tommy Pham
LF
Right-handed
Francisco Lindor
SS
Switch-hitter
Pete Alonso
1B
Right-handed
Jeff McNeil
2B
Left-handed
Starling Marte
RF
Right-handed
Francisco Álvarez
C
Right-handed
Brett Baty
3B
Left-handed
Mark Canha
DH
Right-handed
Dodgers Rosters
Dodgers Starting Lineup
Position
Handedness
Mookie Betts
RF
Right-handed
Freddie Freeman
1B
Left-handed
Will Smith
C
Right-handed
JD Martinez
DH
Right-handed
Max Muncy
3B
Left-handed
Miguel Rojas
SS
Right-handed
Mario Vargas
2B
Right-handed
Jaden Outman
CF
Left-handed
Johnny Deluca
LF
Right-handed
Mets vs Dodgers Preview: FAQs
The Mets' starting pitcher for the game against the Dodgers is Justin Verlander.
The prediction is for a Mets win and for the total runs scored to stay under 8.5.
Key players to watch include Francisco Lindor and Pete Alonso for the Mets, and Mookie Betts and Julio Urías for the Dodgers.
The game can be watched through various channels, such as local sports networks, national broadcasts, or streaming services that offer baseball coverage.
The Mets are slight home underdogs with +105 odds, while the Dodgers are -125 favorites.