BREAKING: The Los Angeles Dodgers are set to start left-hander Blake Snell in Game 1 of the NLCS against the Milwaukee Brewers on October 16, 2023. In a strategic move, righty Yoshinobu Yamamoto will take the mound in Game 2, while superstar Shohei Ohtani is slated for a single start later in the series.
Dodgers manager Dave Roberts confirmed the news, emphasizing the team’s decision to prioritize rest for their rotation. “He’ll pitch at some point, but we just don’t know which day,” Roberts stated. Unlike previous playoff strategies, the Dodgers are focused on maximizing the effectiveness of their four starters for the best-of-seven series.
This decision comes as Ohtani struggles at the plate, currently hitting just .148 this month and holding a 4.50 ERA over six postseason innings. When questioned if Ohtani’s slump influenced the pitching plan, Roberts firmly stated, “No, not at all.” He added, “It’s just one game, and we have two other guys that can pitch on regular rest.”
The Brewers are planning a unique approach for Game 1, likely starting with an opener before transitioning to a starter for bulk innings. Manager Pat Murphy hinted at options including Jose Quintana or Quinn Priester to provide length in the early game.
Looking ahead, the Brewers are targeting Freddy Peralta for Game 2, with further decisions on Game 3 still pending. “I don’t know,” Murphy remarked about rookie Jacob Misiorowski, indicating potential roles in either starting or relieving.
As the Dodgers finalize their roster, they are considering carrying only two catchers. Will Smith’s hand injury is not a significant concern, having caught the entirety of Games 3 and 4 in the NLDS. “I have a couple of conversations to have shortly,” Roberts noted about the roster strategy.
Fans eagerly await the action to unfold as the Dodgers gear up for Game 1, making these moves crucial to their championship aspirations. This series marks a pivotal moment for both teams, signaling the intensity of postseason baseball.
Stay tuned for live updates and analysis as the Dodgers and Brewers clash in what promises to be an electrifying playoff series.
