Kopech opened the Dodgers' bullpen game against the Mets in Game 6

LOS ANGELES (AP) – Michael Kopech will open Game 6 of the National League Championship Series for the Los Angeles Dodgers, who plan to send a parade of relievers to the mound to win their record 25th NL pennant.

The right-hander opens Sunday's bullpen game at Dodger Stadium against the New York Mets, who trail 3-2 in the best-of-seven series.

“I just feel like it's the best chance to get a zero in the first inning and then advance,” manager Dave Roberts said before the game. “We’re going to use a lot of different people.”

Kopech last pitched in Game 3 on Wednesday, which was his only appearance in the NLCS. He picked up the win by striking out a batter in a scoreless inning. He appeared in five playoff games, allowing one hit, drawing two walks and recording six strikeouts in 4 1/3 scoreless innings.

Kopech came to the Dodgers from the Chicago White Sox at the July trade deadline as part of a three-team trade. In 24 games for the Dodgers, Kopech was 4-0 with a 1.13 ERA, 29 strikeouts and six saves in 24 innings.

Kopech was one of several rested Dodgers relievers who entered the game.

All-Star first baseman Freddie Freeman will not be in the Dodgers lineup. He was dealing with a sprained right ankle and was replaced by Max Muncy, who will start fifth.

“He just felt like we felt like it was best for him to give him another day,” Roberts said. “Just doesn’t feel like himself.”

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