The MVP of this evenly matched series was Orel Hershiser, who actually made four appearances - three starts and one in relief -- and was even up in the bullpen during Game 5. He was 1-0 with a save, a 1.09 ERA and 15 strikeouts in 24 2/3 innings against the Mets - and he saved his best for last.

Game 7 was one of those rare opportunities as a fan to just sit back the entire game and celebrate before just making it formal after the last out. The Dodgers had a 6-0 lead at home after two innings, as Dwight Gooden was forced to relieve Ron Darling in the second. Hershiser, whose extreme use had even caused Mets manager Davey Johnson to question the logic before Game 7, made that score stand up by throwing a five-hitter for his first decision of the series.

Dodgers left fielder Kirk Gibson, who had hit a pivotal and decisive homer in the top of the 12th in Game 4 at Shea Stadium, exited Game 7 after the third inning with a hamstring problem.

His status for the World Series was unknown.

Path to the NLCS: Los Angeles (94-67) won the NL West by seven games; New York (100-60) won the NL East by 15 games?

Managers: Tommy Lasorda, LAD; Davey Johnson, NYM

MVP: Orel Hershiser