Dodgers at Mets
The Los Angeles Dodgers look to continue their dominance of the New York Mets when the teams conclude their three-game series Sunday at Citi Field. The Dodgers have won 11 straight against the Mets dating back to May 2016, with each of the last nine victories coming by at least three runs.
Clayton Kershaw returned from the disabled list and Matt Kemp belted a pinch-hit grand slam in Saturday’s 8-3 win as the Dodgers improved to 24-9 since May 17. Making his first start since June 1 due to a lower back strain, Kershaw was on a pitch limit and exited after giving up two runs over three innings. “It was good to be back,” the seven-time All-Star told reporters. “Now I can focus on getting better. Health-wise, it’s there. Now it’s just a matter of performance. It’s a good first step.” The Mets have lost five straight overall and 12 of 13 at home but continue to receive consistent production at the top of the order from Brandon Nimmo, who is batting .284 with 12 home runs, 25 RBIs and seven stolen bases after going 3-for-5 in Saturday’s loss.
TV: 1:10 p.m. ET, SportsNet LA (Los Angeles), WPIX (New York)
PITCHING MATCHUP: Dodgers LH Rich Hill (1-2, 4.99 ERA) vs. TBD
After missing nearly a month due to a blister, Hill returned with a stellar effort against the Chicago Cubs on Tuesday, allowing three hits with six strikeouts over six scoreless innings. “He was outstanding,” manager Dave Roberts told reporters. “The fastball, curveball command was on point. You hope to get something like that, but you never know first start off a rehab.” The 38-year-old Hill is 1-2 with an 8.00 ERA in six career games (four starts) versus the Mets.
Jason Vargas was expected to start Sunday’s contest but will be placed on the disabled list instead after suffering a strained calf during conditioning drills. The Mets are promoting Chris Flexen from Triple-A Las Vegas to replace Vargas on the roster but haven't announced who will start the series finale. “We’re going to see how everyone is feeling when they come in Sunday and then make a decision,” manager Mickey Callaway told reporters.
WALK-OFFS
1. Dodgers INF Chris Taylor has been held out of the starting lineup with a tight left hamstring for the past two games but entered as a pinch-hitter on Saturday and delivered a two-run double.
2. The Mets have scored four runs or fewer in 15 straight home games dating to May 20.
3. The Dodgers optioned LHP Adam Liberatore to Triple-A Oklahoma City to make room for Kershaw.