Mets vs. Dodgers Game 4 Preview and Prediction

The New York Mets lead the series 2-1 against the Los Angeles Dodgers and have a chance to clinch the series tonight at home. So will the Mets advance, or will the Dodgers force a pivotal Game 5? Here's our preview and prediction. 

Starting Pitchers:

Clayton Kershaw (LA) [16-7, 2.43 ERA] vs. Steven Matz (NYM) [4-0, 2.27 ERA]

Starting Lineups: 

Mets:

Curtis Granderson, RF
David Wright, 3B
Daniel Murphy, 2B
Yoenis Cespedes, LF
Travis d'Arnaud, C
Lucas Duda, 1B
Wilmer Flores, SS
Juan Lagares, CF

Dodgers:

Enrique Hernandez, CF
Howie Kendrick, 2B
Adrian Gonzalez, 1B
Justin Turner, 3B
Corey Seager, SS
Yasiel Puig, RF
A.J. Ellis, C
Justin Ruggiano, LF

Key To The Game: 

Can Clayton Kershaw deliver in the postseason? In his career, Kershaw is a woeful 1-6 with a 4.99 ERA. For a pitcher as dominant as Kershaw is in the regular season, he hasn't delivered after September ends. If Kershaw can't produce a strong start, the Dodgers are in trouble. 

What They're Saying About The Dodgers:

Chase Utley's Suspension Appeal To Be Heard Monday

On Short Rest, Kershaw Battling October Demons

What They're Saying About The Mets: 

Bartolo Colon Will Backup Matz

Chipper Jones Cheering For Mets

Prediction: Dodgers Win 4-2

Kershaw may be on short rest, but he finally conquers his postseason issues and gets a critical win for his club. The rookie Matz pitches well, but it isn't enough to surpass Kershaw. The Dodgers force a Game 5.