Philly Leader

The Mets and Phillies are set to face off in Game 1 of the National League Division Series on Saturday. The game will take place at Citizens Bank Park in Philadelphia and is scheduled to start at 4:08 p.m. ET, with coverage on FOX.

This matchup follows a dramatic win for the Mets over the Brewers, where Pete Alonso hit a crucial three-run home run in the ninth inning during the NL Wild Card Series. "Philadelphia-Mets playoff baseball is going to be intense," said Mets outfielder Brandon Nimmo, reflecting on the upcoming series between these two NL East rivals.

Starting pitchers for the game include Kodai Senga for the Mets and Zack Wheeler for the Phillies. Senga has been sidelined due to injuries but returns after last pitching on July 26. Wheeler has had a strong finish to his season, posting impressive stats over his final starts.

Lineup decisions remain critical for both teams. For the Mets, manager Carlos Mendoza faces choices around designated hitter options J.D. Martinez and Jesse Winker against Wheeler's pitching. Meanwhile, Phillies manager Rob Thomson might adjust his lineup based on platoon matchups.

Both teams have bullpen strategies ready, with key players like Edwin Díaz for the Mets and Carlos Estévez for the Phillies expected to play significant roles.

Injury updates note that Jeff McNeil remains out for the Mets due to a fractured wrist, while Austin Hays is expected back from a sore back for the Phillies.

As fans prepare for this anticipated showdown, they will be watching closely to see how players like Francisco Lindor and Pete Alonso perform following recent pivotal moments in their games.