Walker Buehler vs. Luis Severino: Breaking down both pitchers' postseason stats ahead of crucial NLCS Game 3
The 2024 NLCS between the Los Angeles Dodgers and New York Mets is now tied 1-1. New York tied the series in Game 2 after their bats came alive courtesy of Francisco Lindor's leadoff home run. The contest finished with a 7-3 final scoreline. Meanwhile, the series now shifts to the Big Apple for Game 3.
Fans in New York have eagerly waited for the series as it's the first NLCS at Citi Field since 2015 when they triumphed over the Chicago Cubs. The team will seek to continue their strategy on offense after breaking the 33-inning scoreless streak of the Dodgers.
The pitching duel is must-see TV for Game 3 of the NLCS as two-time All-Star Luis Severino takes the mound for the home squad. At the other side of the spectrum, former All-MLB First Team member and All-Star Walker Buehler hopes to reimpose the Dodgers' dominance on the mound.
Luis Severino's postseason stats
Heading into the showdown against Buehler, Severino has started twice in the 2024 postseason. He made his first postseason start for the Mets against the Brewers in Milwaukee.
In his six-inning appearance, Severino surrendered eight hits, four earned runs and two walks while striking out three. Despite the rocky start, the Dominican hurler was awarded the victory as the Mets prevailed over the Brewers in Game 1 of the National League Wild Card Series.
Sevy's next appearance was on Oct. 6 in Game 2 of the NLDS against the Philadelphia Phillies. He also worked six innings in the contest while giving up six hits, three earned runs and two home runs. Severino struck out seven batters and his start merited a no-decision. The Phillies triumphed over the Mets that afternoon.
Heading into Game 3 of the NLCS, Severino is carrying a 4.50 ERA in his two starts. In his MLB postseason career, the pitcher owns a 2-4 record with a 5.01 ERA and 1.47 WHIP.
Walker Buehler's postseason stats
A former Cy Young candidate, Buehler owns a sole appearance in this year's postseason. In Game 2 of the NLDS against the San Diego Padres, Buehler was rocked by one of the best offenses in the league.
In five innings of work, Buehler gave up seven hits, six runs and a walk with no strikeouts as he incurred the loss. The Padres demolished the Dodgers in the said contest, 10-2.
Buehler, who tasted much success during his early years in the league, boasts a respectable postseason record. He currently owns a 3-4 win-loss tally with a 3.40 ERA in 16 starts.
NLCS Game 3 Pitcher Breakdown (2024 Postseason)
Luis Severino is certainly favored coming into Game 3 of the NLCS not only because he's performed better in this year's postseason, but also because the New York Mets are carrying the momentum as the series shifts to their home turf.
However, Walker Buehler should never be discounted as he's proven time and again – especially during most of his career that he's a premier playoff performer.
Who do you think will come out on top and take a 2-1 lead in the series on Wednesday? Let us know your thoughts in the comments section below.