Baseball can be a source of hope, particularly in a short series where any team can rise to the occasion, even against formidable opponents such as the Los Angeles Dodgers. The Dodgers, currently leading their division and poised for another playoff appearance, present both challenges and opportunities for the teams that face them.
Despite the Dodgers’ impressive stats, such as holding a top-three position in overall offensive performance, there are still some vulnerabilities. This season, their offense is notably propelled by catcher Will Smith, who boasts a remarkable 171 wRC+. In contrast, star players like Mookie Betts and Freddie Freeman have experienced fluctuations in their performance, with Betts struggling offensively, holding an 87 wRC+.
In the Dodgers’ lineup, they continue to rotate players with the likes of promising sophomore Andy Pages, who has contributed a solid number of home runs. There could also be an appearance from Max Muncy, currently on a rehab assignment and known for his valuable contributions this season. Meanwhile, the emergence of Alex Freeland may add a fresh dynamic to their infield, although it’s still early to determine his impact.
On the pitching front, the Dodgers’ bullpen ranks highly in fWAR, yet their ERA suggests inconsistency, with a 4.21 team bullpen ERA placing them in the middle of the pack. The bullpen is a mixture of high-priced veterans and cost-effective options, leading to variability in their performance. As seen in recent games, multiple pitchers have been credited with saves, indicating some uncertainty regarding their closer role.
Looking ahead to the upcoming series, the matchups present intriguing narratives. Sonny Gray, facing Tyler Glasnow, comes into the game under challenging circumstances but has the potential for a turnaround. On Tuesday, Miles Mikolas faces off against Emmet Sheehan, with both pitchers looking to improve their standings in this tough matchup. Finally, left-hander Matthew Liberatore will take on Shohei Ohtani, who presents his own challenges with a limited number of innings pitched this season.
Ultimately, while facing the Dodgers is daunting, each game offers a chance for surprise and resilience. Just as past underdog teams have defied expectations, there remains hope for any team on the field. This series will be a test of skill, strategy, and perhaps a sprinkle of luck—a quintessential aspect of baseball that can delight fans and players alike. The possibility of upsets in sports continues to inspire belief, making each game a must-watch event.