The May 23, 2025 matchup between the Los Angeles Dodgers and New York Mets at Citi Field is one of the most anticipated games on the schedule, not only because it features two of the National League’s top teams but also because it serves as a rematch of the 2024 NLCS, which the Dodgers won en route to their most recent World Series title. Now, the Dodgers arrive in Queens with a 31–19 record and sole possession of first place in the NL West, bolstered by a relentless lineup led by Freddie Freeman, Mookie Betts, and Shohei Ohtani, all of whom have performed at or near All-Star levels through the first two months of the season. Los Angeles has managed to maintain their dominance despite dealing with significant pitching injuries, including to marquee offseason acquisition Roki Sasaki and reigning NL Cy Young winner Blake Snell, but their depth has stepped up and veteran Clayton Kershaw is expected to take the ball for the series opener, bringing his poise and postseason pedigree into a high-stakes regular-season environment. Offensively, the Dodgers remain one of the most explosive teams in baseball, consistently delivering in key spots with runners in scoring position, and they’ve been particularly effective in late innings, showing an ability to wear down opposing bullpens.

They hold a 24–21 record against the run line this season, a testament to their frequent multi-run wins and their ability to stretch leads with insurance runs late in games. Meanwhile, the Mets enter the contest just a game behind the Dodgers in the win column at 30–20 and riding high on a dominant home stretch that has seen them go 17–5 at Citi Field, thanks in large part to the resurgence of their pitching staff and the offensive production of stars like Pete Alonso, Francisco Lindor, and the ever-dangerous Juan Soto. Alonso has paced the lineup with a .292 average, nine home runs, and 37 RBIs, while Lindor has quietly delivered eight home runs and strong defense up the middle, helping to solidify one of the more complete infields in baseball. Kodai Senga continues to be the Mets’ ace, though it’s not yet confirmed whether he or another starter will take the mound for this series opener, and the Mets’ 25–15 run line record signals their efficiency in not only winning but outpacing expectations in most matchups. This clash of titans is more than just a regular-season measuring stick—it’s a potential postseason preview that carries playoff implications with every pitch, particularly for two teams trying to assert their dominance in their respective divisions. While the Dodgers bring the name recognition and championship pedigree, the Mets bring one of the most complete home records in the league and a deep, balanced roster capable of standing toe-to-toe with anyone in baseball. Friday’s game is expected to be tightly contested, high-scoring, and filled with playoff-caliber tension, and with both clubs performing near the top of the National League, it could very well be a preview of another October showdown.