Dodgers vs Mets: Kershaw's Return, Ticket Insights, and Game Highlights

The Los Angeles Dodgers and New York Mets recently faced off in a series filled with notable moments, from Clayton Kershaw's anticipated return to nail-biting game outcomes. This article dives into the details surrounding ticket availability, game highlights, and significant plays that defined the series.

Ticket Availability and Pricing

For fans looking to catch a game between the Dodgers and Mets, ticket prices can vary widely depending on the date, opponent, and seat location. According to a Reddit post, one fan inquired about the lowest possible ticket price for a Mets vs. Dodgers game on May 24th, questioning whether $79 for standing room was a worthwhile investment. This highlights the demand and potential costs associated with attending such games.

If you're planning to attend a game at Citi Field, it's wise to monitor ticket prices and availability in advance. Here are some options to consider:

• Official Ticket Sources: Check the official websites of the New York Mets and Los Angeles Dodgers for direct ticket purchases.
• Resale Marketplaces: Platforms like StubHub and TicketPick can offer tickets, but prices may fluctuate based on demand.
• Day-of-Game Deals: Some fans have had success buying tickets on the day of the game, but this can be risky, especially for high-demand matchups.

For those deciding whether to buy tickets in advance or on the same day, consider the following factors:

• Game Popularity: High-profile matchups, like Dodgers vs. Mets, tend to have higher demand.
• Seat Preferences: If you have specific seating preferences, buying in advance is advisable.
• Budget: Monitor prices and be ready to act when you find a deal that fits your budget.

Source: Reddit post discussing earned runs in a Dodgers/Mets game.

Clayton Kershaw's Return and Pitching Matchups

One of the series' highlights was the anticipated return of Dodgers' pitcher Clayton Kershaw. A game chat on Reddit mentioned Kershaw as the starter for one of the games against the Mets, marking his presence in the series. However, his outing was limited to just 2 innings. The game featured a pitching matchup against Griffin Canning of the Mets. Kershaw's performance included 2 innings pitched, allowing no runs on one hit, and recording one strikeout.

Here's a brief overview of the pitching performances from the game on May 23rd:

• Clayton Kershaw (Dodgers): 2.0 IP, 0 R, 0 ER, 1 BB, 1 SO
• Griffin Canning (Mets): 2.2 IP, 3 R, 3 ER, 4 BB, 1 SO

The game also saw contributions from several relief pitchers, including:

• Dodgers: Matt Sauer, Ben Casparius, Tan Scott, Alex Vesia, and others.
• Mets: Grant Hartwig, Christian Scott, Yacksel Rios, and others.

Game Highlights and Key Plays

The Dodgers vs. Mets series was packed with exciting plays and memorable moments. Here are some of the key highlights:

• Brett Baty's Home Run: In one of the games, Mets' third baseman Brett Baty hit a solo home run, providing an offensive spark for his team.
• Jeff McNeil's Two-Run Triple: Jeff McNeil delivered a crucial two-run triple in a game, showcasing his ability to come through in high-pressure situations.
• Tyrone Taylor's Game-Tying RBI Single: Tyrone Taylor hit a game-tying RBI single, demonstrating his clutch hitting.
• Francisco Alvarez's Pickoff: Mets' catcher Francisco Alvarez made a significant play by picking off Shohei Ohtani at second base, preventing a potential scoring opportunity for the Dodgers.
• Controversial Call: A play involving Michael Conforto stirred debate when he was ruled safe after a review, highlighting the intricacies of baseball rules.

Image from Reddit post highlighting a Dodgers game without Freddie Freeman.

Dodgers Score from 3rd: A Controversial Play

One particular play during the Dodgers vs. Mets series gained significant attention due to its unusual nature and the application of a specific baseball rule. According to a Reddit post, the Dodgers legally scored from 3rd base on an "Initial Touch" play, as per the rulebook. In this scenario, the runner left the base on the initial touch of the ball, rather than waiting for the final catch, which led to a successful score. The play was similar to a 2017 game against the Giants, where the Dodgers also benefited from this rule.

The initial play can be seen here.

This type of play often sparks debate and confusion among fans, as it involves a nuanced understanding of baseball's rulebook. In the Dodgers vs. Mets game, the Mets challenged the play but were unsuccessful, leading to discussions about the interpretation and application of the rule.

Fan Experiences and Citi Field Atmosphere

Attending a Dodgers vs. Mets game at Citi Field offers a unique experience for baseball fans. One Reddit user shared their excitement about traveling from Los Angeles to New York and attending a game at Citi Field. They noted the weather conditions and expressed their anticipation for seeing Clayton Kershaw pitch.

Citi Field, home of the New York Mets, provides a vibrant atmosphere for fans. Some of the notable features include:

• Food and Beverages: A wide variety of food and beverage options, ranging from classic ballpark fare to gourmet selections.
• Seating Options: Various seating options to cater to different preferences and budgets.
• Fan Engagement: Interactive displays and activities to enhance the fan experience.

For those planning to visit Citi Field, it's worth noting the stadium's accessibility via public transportation, including the 7 subway line and the Long Island Rail Road (LIRR). This makes it convenient for fans traveling from different parts of New York City and beyond.

Scorecard Insights and Earned Runs

The nuances of baseball scoring, particularly the concept of earned runs, often generate discussions among fans. A Reddit post from r/BaseballScorecards highlighted a specific play from a Dodgers/Mets game to discuss whether a run should be considered earned. In this scenario, Sterling Marte reached second base due to a throwing error by Max Muncy and eventually scored. The question was whether the run should count as an earned run given the error.

According to baseball rules, an earned run is a run that scores without the aid of errors or passed balls. In this particular case, the error by Max Muncy played a crucial role in allowing Sterling Marte to advance, which influences whether the run is deemed earned or unearned.

Selling Tickets and Game Day Deals

For those unable to attend a game, selling tickets can be a viable option. One Reddit user posted about selling tickets to a Mets/Dodgers game, indicating that there is a market for fans looking to buy or sell tickets to these matchups. When buying or selling tickets, it's essential to use reputable platforms to ensure a smooth transaction.

Tips for buying and selling baseball tickets:

• Use reputable websites: Stick to well-known platforms like Ticketmaster, StubHub, or SeatGeek to avoid scams.
• Compare prices: Check multiple sites to find the best deals. Prices can vary widely depending on demand and seat location.
• Consider game day deals: Sometimes, prices drop closer to game time, but this can be risky if the game is popular.
• Be wary of social media: While social media can be a source of tickets, it's also rife with scams. Only buy from trusted sources.
• Check the fine print: Understand the refund policies and any potential fees before making a purchase.

Additional Game Notes and Trivia

The Dodgers and Mets series often features intriguing side stories and trivia. One Reddit post pointed out that the Dodgers' promotional team seemed to be "trolling" the Padres by scheduling giveaway nights, such as a Blake Snell bobblehead night, during games against their rivals. This added an extra layer of interest to the series.

Some other interesting facts and notes from the series include:

• Clayton Kershaw's Performance: As mentioned earlier, Kershaw's return was a significant event, although his time on the mound was limited.
• Yoshinobu Yamamoto's Start: In another game, Yoshinobu Yamamoto of the Dodgers had a strong outing, pitching seven innings and allowing only one hit.
• Key Offensive Contributions: Players like Will Smith, Jeff McNeil, and Tyrone Taylor delivered crucial hits that influenced the outcomes of their respective games.

Conclusion

The Dodgers vs. Mets series provided baseball fans with a mix of excitement, drama, and memorable moments. From Clayton Kershaw's return to the controversial plays, the series underscored the intricacies and passion that define Major League Baseball. Whether you're a die-hard fan or a casual observer, the Dodgers-Mets rivalry continues to deliver compelling storylines and thrilling baseball action.