The intentional walk to Lindor was reasonably sound strategy on the Dodgers' part, even if Vientos "did take it personal," but it marked the continuation of a trend pointed out by ESPN: The last three playoff grand slams after a purposeful free pass have all come at the expense of the Dave Roberts's boys. There was Miguel Montero as the eventual champion Cubs took Game 1 of the NLCS in 2016, Howie Kendrick for the eventual champion Nats in the 10th inning of an NLDS Game 5, and now Mark Vientos in 2024 for the outcome-TBD Mets. Nobody's had more practice at burning themselves in big moments than the Dodgers.
Reply With Quote