The Los Angeles Dodgers are set to kick off the National League Championship Series (NLCS) against the Milwaukee Brewers. Blake Snell, a left-handed pitcher, will take the mound for Game 1 on Monday night, while right-handed pitcher Yoshinobu Yamamoto is expected to start in Game 2.
Dodgers’ Pitching Strategy
Notably, Shohei Ohtani will only pitch in one game during the series, which will occur during the third match back in Los Angeles. Dodgers manager Dave Roberts commented on Ohtani’s limited appearances. “He’ll pitch at some point, but we just don’t know which day,” Roberts stated.
Importance of Rest
Roberts emphasized the importance of rest for the team’s other starters in a best-of-seven series. The team’s depth allows them to approach the games strategically, focusing on maximizing each pitcher’s performance. “It’s not as important,” Roberts said regarding Ohtani’s availability before a day off.
Ohtani’s Performance
Current statistics show Ohtani struggling at the plate during the postseason. He has a batting average of .148 and a 4.50 ERA over six innings. When questioned if Ohtani’s struggles influenced the pitching plan, Roberts clarified it was unrelated, reiterating that Ohtani would only pitch one game this series.
Brewers’ Game Plan
The Milwaukee Brewers are preparing to counter the Dodgers’ approach. Manager Pat Murphy indicated that the team might utilize an opener for Game 1, looking for a pitcher who can provide significant innings. Options like Jose Quintana and Quinn Priester are being considered.
Future Starts
Freddy Peralta is confirmed to start Game 2 for the Brewers. Murphy is still deciding on the Game 3 pitcher, mentioning the possibility of rookie Jacob Misiorowski either starting or providing multiple innings from the bullpen.
Rosters and Catching Decisions
Both teams are finalizing their rosters for the series. The Dodgers are contemplating carrying only two catchers, due to Will Smith’s injury not being a major concern. Smith successfully completed multiple games in the previous round against the Arizona Diamondbacks.
- Dodgers Starters:
- Game 1: Blake Snell
- Game 2: Yoshinobu Yamamoto
- Brewers Strategy:
- Game 1: Opener approach with potential bulk innings from Quintana or Priester
- Game 2: Freddy Peralta
- Ohtani’s Postseason Stats:
- Batting Average: .148
- ERA: 4.50 over six innings
As both teams prepare for Game 1, the strategic decisions made by managers will undoubtedly play a crucial role in the outcome of this highly anticipated series.
