Dodgers vs. Braves: NLDS Begins
The Dodgers face the Atlanta Braves in Game 1 of the National League Division Series (NLDS) at Dodger Stadium. The matchup starts Saturday at 1 p.m. PDT and will be broadcast on Fox, Fox One, and Fox Deportes. Radio coverage is available on 570 AM and 1020 AM (Spanish) in Los Angeles.
Starting Pitchers and Scheduling
Tarik Skubal starts for the Dodgers, followed by Blake Snell in Game 2. Both pitchers are left-handers, and the team plans to pitch right-hander Yoshinobu Yamamoto in Game 3 in Atlanta. The Dodgers aim to leverage their pitching strengths with two left-handed starters to begin the best-of-five series.
Dodgers’ Roster Insights
The Dodgers refined their NLDS roster, carrying 14 position players and 12 pitchers. Rookie Josue De Paula and utility player Hyeseong Kim bring versatility to the bench. De Paula offers a strong pinch-hit option, while Kim can serve as a pinch runner.
Dodgers president Andrew Friedman commented on the depth of the pitching staff. Although a best-of-five series minimizes pitching depth’s importance, the team plans strategically with five right-handers and three left-handers available in the bullpen.
Lineups and Strategy
The Dodgers lineup sees Mookie Betts leading off and Shohei Ohtani batting second. The lineup also includes stalwarts like Freddie Freeman and Teoscar Hernández. Utilizing powerful hitters while facing the Braves’ strategy of a bullpen game presents challenges.
Betting Odds and Game Schedule
The remainder of the series is scheduled as follows:
- Game 2: Sunday, 5 p.m. at Dodger Stadium | FS1, Fox One, Fox Deportes
- Game 3: Tuesday, 3 p.m. at Truist Park | FS1, Fox One, Fox Deportes
- Game 4: Wednesday, 3 p.m. at Truist Park | FS1, Fox One, Fox Deportes *
- Game 5: Friday, 5 p.m. at Dodger Stadium | Fox, Fox One, Fox Deportes *
*If necessary
Pre-Game Commentary
Blake Snell highlighted the significance of October in player legacies, commenting that achievements in the postseason define legends. Dodgers manager Dave Roberts emphasized the potential for ‘unknown heroes’ to emerge.
Additionally, Miguel Rojas is soaking up what could be his last postseason, expressing gratitude for his career and moments he has experienced.