The Mets are two games behind the Philadelphia Phillies for first place in the NL East, but are 5.5 games ahead of the Atlanta Braves for second. Right-hander Griffin Canning (5-1, 2.47 ERA) will start for them against Dodgers southpaw Clayton Kershaw (0-0, 11.25 ERA) on Friday night.

The New York Mets have been in a debilitating offensive slump in recent games. The lineup has consistently struggled to produce, especially with baserunners in

The eighth edition of Newsweek Sports' MLB Power Rankings, with the Yankees rising to the top and the Mets and Padres falling.

We're getting a top-shelf series with three national broadcasts. The Dodgers' big bats visit the Mets and their league-best ERA.

Find out how to watch the New York Mets vs. Los Angeles Dodgers series, with TV channel info, live streaming options, game times, probable starting

Ahead of Friday's game, Mets manager Carlos Mendoza sent a message regarding Los Angeles that could make the series that much more interesting. This series is already a must-watch as it is, but Mendoza's recent message about the Dodgers should add a bit more intrigue.

Game 1 was a fever dream, even for these extraordinarily chaotic playoffs. Let's see what's in store for Friday night.

As the Mets contemplate their long-term future with him, they'll also have to wrangle with his historically poor defense. Comparing Soto's contract and future to those of Los Angeles Dodgers superstar Shohei Ohtani, Fox Sports' Deesha Thosar noted Soto could be moved out of a defensive role soon.