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Postseason Snap Judgments: What We’ve Learned So Far

We’re just two games into both the American League Championship Series (ALCS) and National League Championship Series (NLCS), and already, we’re seeing some intriguing storylines emerge. Our MLB experts weigh in on what’s stood out most, who the early MVPs are, and what’s next for these World Series hopefuls.

NLCS: Los Angeles Dodgers vs. New York Mets

The series is tied after dominant offensive performances carried both teams to wins at Dodger Stadium. But what has impressed our experts most?

• Early MVP: Jack Flaherty, who threw seven scoreless innings in Game 1, and Mark Vientos, who hit a nine-pitch grand slam in Game 2.
• Lineup Impressions: The Mets have impressed with their depth, while the Dodgers need key guys like Will Smith and Shohei Ohtani to get going.
• Surprises: The Dodgers’ bullpen strategy backfired in Game 2, and Ohtani has looked lost against breaking pitches. The Mets, meanwhile, have made some glaring mistakes on the bases and defense.

What’s Next?

For the Dodgers, starting pitchers need to be effective, and they must continue to neutralize Ohtani and Mookie Betts at the top of the order. The Mets need to clean up their defense and take advantage of the lower tier of the L.A. playoff pitching staff.

ALCS: New York Yankees vs. Cleveland Guardians

The Yankees have taken a commanding 2-0 series lead, overpowering the Guardians both nights in the Bronx. What’s stood out most?

• Early MVP: Gleyber Torres, who has reached base in five of nine plate appearances, and Carlos Rodón, who dominated in Game 1.
• Judge Breakout: Aaron Judge finally homered in Game 2, easing pressure and potentially sparking a hot streak.
• Guardians’ Struggles: They need to score more runs and play cleaner baseball, limiting mistakes and defensive miscues.

What’s Next?

For the Guardians, it’s about regaining their regular-season form, scoring more runs, and playing mistake-free baseball. The Yankees, meanwhile, need their bullpen to continue its stellar performance and their offense to stay hot.