**Dodgers Look to Seal NLCS Victory Against Mets in Game 5**

Game 5 of the National League Championship Series (NLCS) between the Los Angeles Dodgers and the New York Mets is set to take place at 5:08 PM EST at Citi Field in Queens, with the Dodgers poised to potentially clinch the series. After a commanding 10-2 victory in Game 4, Los Angeles leads the series 3-1 and needs just one more win to advance to the World Series.

The Dodgers' offense has been a powerhouse throughout the series, scoring eight or more runs in three of the four games. Shohei Ohtani and Mookie Betts were key contributors in the latest game, each hitting a home run and demonstrating their prowess at the plate. Manager Dave Roberts praised his team for maintaining their aggressive play, noting, "We don't want to give these guys any momentum."

Jack Flaherty, who will start for the Dodgers in Game 5, delivered an exceptional performance in Game 1, pitching seven scoreless innings and allowing only two hits. Flaherty finished the regular season with a 13-7 record and a commendable 3.17 ERA. Alongside his impressive record, he also amassed 194 strikeouts and issued just 38 walks.

On the other side, the New York Mets are in a precarious position, needing a win to keep their playoff hopes alive. David Peterson, who had a solid regular season with a 2.90 ERA and a 10-3 record, will take the mound for the Mets. However, Peterson has been used primarily in relief during the postseason and now faces the challenging task of slowing down the Dodgers' high-powered offense.

The Mets' offensive struggles were evident in Game 4, despite an early home run from Mark Vientos. The team couldn't generate sufficient run support, with key players like Francisco Lindor and Pete Alonso unable to produce runs. Brandon Nimmo, who had an RBI on a fielder's choice, acknowledged the tough road ahead, stating, "If we come back from this, then it's going to be a heck of a story."

As the Dodgers look to close out the series and secure their spot in the World Series, the Mets will need an extraordinary performance to extend their season. The winner of this NLCS will compete against the victor of the Yankees vs. Guardians series in the American League.