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On Saturday, MLB legends Alex Rodriguez, Derek Jeter, and David Ortiz discussed the NLDS showdown between the Philadelphia Phillies and New York Mets. The two are set to play a best-of-five series with the winner going on to the NLCS.
The Mets arrive into the game off the back of a thrilling comeback victory over the Milwaukee Brewers in the rubber match of the Wild Card series at American Family Field.
On the other hand, Philadelphia has had a few days off while the Wild Card series were taking place, but have home-field advantage due to a superior regular season record.
On October 5's episode of "MLB on FOX," Alex Rodriguez and David Ortiz thought the Mets had the edge going into the encounter.
"They [Mets] have something really special going. They're led by Francisco Lindor, who outside of Shohei Ohtani, has been the best player in the NL," Rodriguez said. [0:15]
"That home run by Alonso changed the whole chemistry on that team. When you have to sit down and wait, that can affect you in the long run. I've been preaching about the Phillies all year round, but sitting down for about a week, I don't like that," Ortiz added [0:40]
However, Derek Jeter differed in opinion, believing the Phillies' depth will see them over the finish line. [1:20]
"Mets magic is exactly what you said. They've been magical in the end of the season and in the first few games of the postseason. But, the magic ends here. The Philadelphia Phillies in my opinion are the deepest team in baseball," Jeter said. [1:20]
"You're talking about four starters, Wheeler, Nola, Suarez, and Sanchez. That's a tough task for any team. I think the Phillies are built for this time of the year," Jeter added. [1:33]
Zack Wheeler and Kodai Senga take to the mound in opening game of Phillies vs Mets series
The opening game of the NLDS is shaping up as a high-quality pitcher's duel. Cy Young hopeful Zack Wheeler takes to the mound for the hosts while Kodai Senga makes his return to the mound for the visitors.
Wheeler has been in fine form this season, with a 2.57 ERA, 224 strikeouts, and a 16-7 win/loss record. Senga, on the other hand, has been struggling with injuries for large parts of the season, but was a reliable member of the pitching staff when he pitched regularly in the 2023 season.
Both sets of fans will be hoping their man on the mound can win the duel on Saturday, as two high quality teams battle it out to make it to the NLCS.
