The Los Angeles Dodgers are looking to bounce back after suffering a disappointing sweep at home against the Houston Astros as they embark on a crucial road trip. With only two series remaining before the All-Star break, the Dodgers will start by facing the Milwaukee Brewers in a three-game series. The Brewers currently hold a record of 50-40, placing them second in the NL Central, just behind the Chicago Cubs.
The Dodgers’ offense, which has been sluggish lately, will face a tough challenge in Brewers pitcher Freddy Peralta. Peralta is tied for the lead in wins in the National League and boasts an impressive 2.91 ERA while having issued just three walks in his last three outings.
On the flip side, the Dodgers will counter with Yoshinobu Yamamoto, who is coming off an exceptional performance against the Chicago White Sox, allowing only one run over seven innings and striking out eight batters. His stellar form offers hope for a more effective pitching matchup.
However, the Dodgers are grappling with injury concerns, as several key players are battling health issues. Max Muncy is sidelined for at least six weeks due to a knee injury, while Kike Hernandez is dealing with left elbow soreness. Tommy Edman has a hairline fracture in his right pinky toe, but the team believes he can avoid an IL stint, and Teoscar Hernandez is struggling with left foot soreness. The absence of these players has coincided with the top performers underachieving at the plate. Notably, Shohei Ohtani has struggled recently, recording just six hits in his last ten games. Mookie Betts shows signs of regaining form with two homers in his last five games, though he was hitless in the most recent game. Meanwhile, Freddie Freeman has started to improve, which is a promising sign for the team.
Given the Dodgers’ strong lead in the NL West, they have the potential to navigate through this downturn before the All-Star break. The team and its fans are hopeful that the players can use this opportunity to refocus and finish strong in the first half of the season.
Monday’s game promises to be pivotal as the Dodgers aim to overcome their recent setbacks and regain momentum.