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The postseason for Major League Baseball is set to kick off on Saturday with the launch of the Divisional Series in each league. These best-of-five matchups will decide which four teams advance to their respective League Championship Series, where they will vie for the pennant and a shot at the World Series title.
In the National League bracket, the No. 1 ranked Los Angeles Dodgers are hosting the No. 4 seed San Diego Padres. Having received a bye, the Dodgers skipped the Wild Card Series, while the Padres made their way here by sweeping the Atlanta Braves in two games. In Game 1 on Saturday, a three-run home run by Shohei Ohtani allowed Los Angeles to narrowly defeat San Diego.
You can find the full 2024 MLB playoff schedule here. Below is the NLDS schedule:
Where to watch Game 2
Date: Sunday, Oct. 6 | Time: 8:03 p.m. ET
Location: Dodger Stadium (Los Angeles)
Channel: FS1
Probable pitchers: RHP Jack Flaherty (13-7, 3.17 ERA) vs. RHP Yu Darvish (7-3, 3.31 ERA)
Odds: LAD -145 | SD +118; over/under: 8.0
In a tightly contested game on Saturday, both teams utilized five relievers each, as their starting pitchers failed to last four innings. This emphasizes the need for Flaherty and Darvish to effectively manage the game and provide some respite for the bullpen on Sunday. Historically, these two teams have clashed in the postseason twice: in 2020, the Dodgers swept the Padres, while in 2022, the Padres triumphed in three out of four games, leading to their appearance in the NLCS.
Here’s what you should know about both teams.
Padres: This is San Diego’s third playoff appearance in the last five seasons. They reached the NLCS in 2022, and in 2020, they were swept by the Dodgers in the NLDS. During the regular season, the Padres managed to win the season series against the Dodgers, finishing with an 8-5 record and outscoring Los Angeles by six runs in their 14 encounters.
Dodgers: After a regular season record of 98-64, the Dodgers secured the top seed in the National League. They aim to achieve their first playoff series victory since 2022, following losses in two consecutive Divisional Series. Shohei Ohtani is not anticipated to pitch this postseason as he continues his recovery from elbow surgery he underwent last fall.
2024 MLB Playoffs: Dodgers vs. Padres NLDS Preview and Schedule
Overview of the 2024 NLDS Matchup
The 2024 MLB Playoffs have arrived, and the National League Division Series (NLDS) features a thrilling matchup between the Los Angeles Dodgers and the San Diego Padres. This rivalry has intensified over the years, making it one of the most anticipated matchups of the postseason. With star-studded lineups and a history of competitive games, fans are eager to see how this series unfolds.
Key Players to Watch
- Shohei Ohtani (Dodgers) – After his impressive playoff debut leading the Dodgers to victory, Ohtani’s performance on the mound and at the plate will be crucial for LA’s success.
- Manny Machado (Padres) – With his recent home run against the Dodgers, Machado is a key player to watch as he aims to provide the offensive spark for San Diego.
- Clayton Kershaw (Dodgers) – The veteran pitcher’s experience in high-stakes games makes him a pivotal part of the Dodgers’ pitching rotation.
- Fernando Tatis Jr. (Padres) – Known for his explosive gameplay, Tatis can change the dynamics of a game with his speed and power.
2024 NLDS Schedule
The schedule for the Dodgers vs. Padres NLDS series is as follows:
| Game | Date | Time (PST) | Location |
|---|---|---|---|
| Game 1 | October 6, 2024 | 7:00 PM | Dodger Stadium |
| Game 2 | October 8, 2024 | 6:30 PM | Dodger Stadium |
| Game 3 | October 10, 2024 | 5:00 PM | PETCO Park |
| Game 4 | October 12, 2024 | 1:00 PM | PETCO Park |
| Game 5 (if necessary) | October 14, 2024 | 7:00 PM | Dodger Stadium |
Recent Performance and Statistics
Los Angeles Dodgers
The Dodgers have had a remarkable season, finishing with a record that positions them as one of the top teams in the league. Key statistics include:
- Regular Season Record: 104 wins, 58 losses
- Team Batting Average: .270
- Home Runs: 237
- ERA (Earned Run Average): 3.65
San Diego Padres
The Padres also had a strong campaign, showing resilience and depth throughout the season. Here are some notable stats:
- Regular Season Record: 97 wins, 65 losses
- Team Batting Average: .260
- Home Runs: 221
- ERA: 3.85
Head-to-Head Matchup
The rivalry between the Dodgers and Padres has been fierce, with both teams showcasing their strengths throughout the regular season. The head-to-head record in 2024 indicates:
| Matchup | Total Games | Dodgers Wins | Padres Wins |
|---|---|---|---|
| Regular Season | 19 | 12 | 7 |
| Last 10 Games | 10 | 8 | 2 |
Strategies for Both Teams
Dodgers Strategy
The Dodgers will rely on their strong offensive lineup and depth in pitching. Key strategies include:
- Maximize Ohtani’s impact both as a pitcher and hitter.
- Utilize their powerful batting order to apply pressure early in games.
- Implement strategic pitching changes to counter the Padres’ lineup.
Padres Strategy
The Padres need to leverage their explosive talents and solid pitching to keep the series competitive. Strategies may include:
- Focus on getting on base early to set the tone for innings.
- Utilize Tatis Jr. and Machado for aggressive base running.
- Mix up pitching to disrupt the Dodgers’ rhythm.
Fans & Atmosphere
The atmosphere at Dodger Stadium and PETCO Park is expected to be electric, with both fan bases eager to support their teams. The Dodgers have a storied history and an enthusiastic crowd, while the Padres will look to capitalize on home-field advantage. Here are a few tips for fans attending the games:
- Arrive Early: Enjoy pre-game festivities and find your seats before the action starts.
- Wear Team Colors: Show your support by wearing Dodgers or Padres gear.
- Stay Hydrated: October games can be warm; make sure to drink plenty of water.
What’s at Stake?
This series is not just a contest for advancement but a battle for pride and regional dominance. The winner will secure a spot in the National League Championship Series (NLCS), getting one step closer to the ultimate goal of a World Series title. With both teams hungry for success, fans can expect an exciting and competitive series.
