With a two-game cushion, the Dodgers held back a little Friday. Manager Dave Roberts could have pulled Flaherty sooner (he said the pitcher was battling an illness) but decided to let his starter wear it for three innings — a span in which he allowed eight runs, eight hits and four walks.

New York Mets closer Edwin Diaz didn’t hesitate. He didn’t try to couch his sentiments. If the bravado becomes bulletin board material, so be it. From NFL plays to college sports scores, all the top sports news you need to know every day.