In a commanding performance, the Los Angeles Dodgers defeated the New York Mets 10-2 in Game 4 of the National League Championship Series, taking a 3-1 lead in the series. Shohei Ohtani set the tone early with a leadoff home run and went on to score four runs. Mookie Betts also shone brightly, contributing a two-run homer and a two-run double among his four hits, driving in a total of four runs. Max Muncy continued his impressive postseason run, extending his streak of reaching base safely to 12 consecutive plate appearances, setting a new postseason record. With this victory, the Dodgers are now just one win away from clinching their 25th pennant, which would be the most in National League history. The Dodgers will have the opportunity to secure their spot in the World Series on Friday.

**Drama, Rivalries, and Ohtani: MLB Playoffs Regain Their Excitement** As Major League Baseball approaches the World Series, the excitement is palpable with just four teams left in the hunt for the championship. The American League Championship Series kicks off on Monday, featuring the Cleveland Guardians taking on the New York Yankees in the Bronx. Meanwhile, the National League Championship Series will see the New York Mets face off against the Los Angeles Dodgers in Game 1 on Sunday. So, how did we arrive at this thrilling point? The answer lies in the captivating early rounds of the playoffs, which have delivered some of the most exciting baseball in recent memory. This surge in drama is a refreshing change from last year's playoffs, which were marred by a series of lopsided sweeps—six in total—where winning teams dominated their opponents by margins of 20 games to two. Such one-sided matchups left many fans longing for the excitement of preseason NBA games. This year, however, the playoffs have been filled with memorable moments, star performances, and intense rivalries, leading to a significant boost in TV ratings. The combination of big-name players, including the likes of Shohei Ohtani, and thrilling plays has rekindled interest in the postseason, making it a must-watch event for both die-hard fans and casual viewers alike. As the final four teams gear up for their championship battles, the anticipation continues to build for what promises to be an unforgettable World Series.