The familiar patterns of a Dodgers season have once again captured the attention of baseball fans, showcasing their resilience and strategic spending. In Game 1 of the NLCS, the Dodgers triumphed over the Brewers with a 2-1 victory, thanks in large part to Blake Snell, a player who has recently emerged as an unexpected key asset for the team.
Snell’s off-season signing, which involved a hefty five-year, $182 million deal, initially raised eyebrows across the league. Despite being a two-time Cy Young winner, he had been largely forgotten amidst the Dodgers’ impressive roster until just a few weeks ago. His early season was marked by disappointment after a shoulder injury sidelined him for four months following just two starts. In a different franchise where Snell might have been the marquee player, such an injury could have proved catastrophic. However, the Dodgers have long understood the value of depth, using their substantial payroll strategically to invest in talents like Shohei Ohtani and Yoshinobu Yamamoto, ensuring they remain competitive even in the face of setbacks.
With the playoffs underway, Snell has demonstrated why he was a coveted player to begin with, winning all three of his postseason starts thus far, racking up an impressive 28 strikeouts in 21 innings while allowing only two runs. His latest outing against the Brewers showcased his revitalized form, where he delivered eight innings of one-hit baseball, striking out 10 batters and facing the minimum number of hitters. This transformation from a hesitant pitcher content with short outings to an ace capable of dominating games has caught the attention of both fans and teammates alike. Freddie Freeman, in his postgame reflections, praised Snell’s changeup, which baffled the Brewers’ hitters with its varied speeds.
The Dodgers’ ability to pull a rejuvenated Snell from the sidelines in crucial moments speaks volumes about the team’s depth and preparation. There was a time, not long ago, when Snell, a reigning Cy Young winner, was overlooked by the league. However, his aspirations of playing for the Dodgers became a reality, providing him a chance to thrive alongside stars like Freeman, Mookie Betts, and Shohei Ohtani.
As the playoffs progress, Snell has the opportunity to further solidify his role in the Dodgers’ championship pursuit, demonstrating how a well-structured team can rebound from adversity and make the most of its investment in talent. The momentum generated by Snell’s performance not only underscores the Dodgers’ strategic acumen but also offers hope for a successful continuation of their postseason journey.