LOS ANGELES — While it may not be a miracle or supernatural event, you might be searching for clarity. How can a team with only three active starting pitchers make it to the World Series?
How did they manage to secure baseball’s finest regular-season record, thus gaining home-field advantage throughout the playoffs?
Can this unconventional style of play — somewhat of a smoke-and-mirrors tactic — lead to four more victories on the grandest stage in baseball?
The Dodgers have already incorporated three bullpen games into this postseason. This strategy has proven successful twice, notably during their 10-5 victory over the New York Mets on Sunday night, which clinched the National League Championship Series. Consequently, Walker Buehler will be well-rested — for nine days — when he faces the New York Yankees in Game 1 of the World Series on Friday evening at The Ravine.
Consider this: Tyler Glasnow was initially acquired and signed to an extension with the expectation that he would serve as the Game 1 ace. According to the original plan, Clayton Kershaw would return to the rotation after recovering from offseason shoulder surgery and perform at his usual high level. There was even hope for the returns of Dustin May and Tony Gonsolin. Maybe, just maybe…
But hope alone doesn’t win championships, yet here are the Dodgers. On Friday, they will mark the franchise’s 22nd appearance in the modern World Series and the 12th against the Yankees.
It’s also noteworthy that the once-mighty Yankees, with their 27 championships in a celebrated history, are appearing in the Fall Classic for the first time since 2009. The Dodgers, on the other hand, have reached the World Series three times since then, winning once (in the pandemic-shortened 2020 season) while having another title snatched from them (in the shadow of the Astros’ controversial 2017 title, which led to the current implementation of the PitchCom system).
Additionally, the Yankees claimed six of seven World Series titles against Brooklyn in the ’40s and ’50s, while the L.A. Dodgers have split four Fall Classic encounters with New York, triumphing in 1963 (with a sweep) and 1981 but losing in 1977 and 1978.
Those with a bit of history might remind me that the Dodgers did have a three-man rotation in 1963, as well as in 1965 when they defeated Minnesota in the World Series. Two of those three, Sandy Koufax and Don Drysdale, are now Hall of Famers.
Do any contemporary pitchers evoke memories of those legends? I didn’t think so.
It’s a different era and a different game. Although the bullpen game might not be the norm, it has evolved into a viable strategy. For the Dodgers, whose relief pitching has grown into a significant strength — an unusual claim compared to previous years — it has become essential.
On Sunday night, they commenced with Michael Kopech, perhaps reasoning that a blazing fastball paired with a 5:08 p.m. first pitch would yield favorable results. As it turned out, a walk to Francisco Lindor, a wild pitch advancing him to second, a grounder to move the runner, and an infield single gave the Mets an early 1-0 lead in the first inning.
However, here lies the other half of the equation: the Dodgers’ offense is quite formidable. It doesn’t solely rely on Shohei Ohtani, Mookie Betts, or Freddie Freeman — who didn’t even start Game 6 due to an injured ankle and a slump that saw him go 1-for-17 since the late innings of Game 1.
Tommy Edman’s two-run double in the bottom of the first marked the series’ first and only lead change, putting L.A. ahead 2-1. Edman, who emerged as the series MVP, later hit a two-run homer in the third inning, extending the score to 6-1. Although the Dodgers’ front office had their sights on Edman prior to acquiring him at the trade deadline, I doubt they considered him a “potential postseason hero” in their evaluations.
Significant leads alleviate pressure on relievers needing to secure outs. By the eighth inning, with Edman — who is batting .340 in the postseason, 11 for 27 in this series, and tied Corey Seager’s franchise record of 11 RBIs in an LCS — at the plate, the score was 9-4, and he was met with chants of “M-V-P,” foreshadowing what was to come.
So, how did the Dodgers manage to make this pitching strategy work?
“You know what? We found a way to piece it together,” Manager Dave Roberts stated on the field post-game, amidst congratulatory hugs and handshakes. “I just have to give all the credit to the players. They bought in. They were ready when called upon. And… it clearly shows there’s no singular approach to achieving success.”
According to the manager, it demonstrated a collective effort from everyone on the roster, indicating shared responsibility.
“It simply comes down to me trusting everyone on the roster,” he explained. “Some guys have cut their teeth in the postseason. It’s not ideal, but they stepped up. They competed and fought. That’s what we require from our pitchers.”
He might have been referring to Landon Knack, who struggled in Game 2 against the Mets, the Dodgers’ only bullpen game loss in the postseason, but he managed to last long enough to save arms for future use. Or Brent Honeywell, who provided three innings in Game 2 and 4⅔ in a Game 5 defeat, again preserving other relievers for vital moments.
Then there are rookies Ben Casparius and Edgardo Henriquez, who got their chances in this series, navigated through them, and will benefit from the experience.
Credit must also be given to players like Evan Phillips, Blake Treinen, and Daniel Hudson, who’ve transitioned away from previously rigid roles, likely in preparation for situations like these. The notion of a designated closer only pitching in the ninth inning now seems outdated, possibly marking the end of this organization’s emphasis on role flexibility.
This flexibility may prove beneficial, especially under these circumstances.
jalexander@scng.com
Originally Published: October 20, 2024 at 9:50 p.m.
Smoke and Mirrors: How the Dodgers Defied Expectations to Reach the World Series
The Road to the World Series: A Rollercoaster Journey
The Los Angeles Dodgers, one of Major League Baseball’s most storied franchises, have a rich history filled with triumphs and challenges. In recent seasons, the team faced a whirlwind of ups and downs that would test their resilience. Despite numerous injuries and fluctuating performance, the Dodgers defied expectations this year, managing to secure a spot in the World Series. This article explores the key factors that contributed to their remarkable journey.
Key Factors Behind the Dodgers’ Success
1. Stellar Pitching Staff
One of the most critical components of the Dodgers’ success has been their exceptional pitching staff. With a mix of veteran experience and promising young talent, the Dodgers have consistently shut down opposing batters. Here are some standout performers:
- Clayton Kershaw: The ace of the staff, Kershaw’s ability to perform in clutch situations has been invaluable.
- Walker Buehler: With his electric fastball and sharp breaking pitches, Buehler has emerged as a key player in pivotal games.
- Julio Urías: His impressive postseason performances have cemented him as a reliable option in high-pressure situations.
2. Depth in the Batting Order
The Dodgers boast one of the deepest batting orders in baseball, which has been crucial for their offensive consistency. Their lineup features a blend of power hitters and contact specialists, providing versatility and unpredictability. Key contributors include:
- Mookie Betts: His dynamic playmaking ability fuels the offense.
- Freddie Freeman: An offensive juggernaut, Freeman’s on-base percentage has been significant in key moments.
- Trea Turner: A perfect blend of speed and hitting prowess, Turner adds another layer of threat to the lineup.
Overcoming Adversity: Injuries and Challenges
The Dodgers faced numerous injuries throughout the season that could have derailed their campaign. However, they managed to adapt and overcome these challenges through a combination of strategic moves and strong team chemistry. Here’s how they did it:
Strategic Use of the Farm System
The Dodgers’ commitment to developing young talent in their farm system allowed them to fill gaps left by injured players. Emerging stars stepped into pivotal roles, showcasing the depth of the organization.
| Player | Position | Impact |
|---|---|---|
| Gavin Lux | Shortstop | Stepped up in the absence of Turner |
| Tony Gonsolin | Pitcher | Provided crucial innings to relieve pressure |
| Will Smith | Catcher | Consistent offensive production in clutch moments |
Team Chemistry and Leadership
The sense of camaraderie among players has been a driving force behind the Dodgers’ success. Veterans like Kershaw and Freeman have taken younger players under their wings, fostering an environment of learning and growth.
Defensive Excellence: The Unsung Hero
While offense often steals the spotlight, the Dodgers’ defense has been pivotal in their World Series run. Strong defensive plays have bailed out pitchers and prevented runs, which is crucial in tight games. Key defensive players include:
- Justin Turner: A reliable third baseman with exceptional range.
- Cody Bellinger: His athleticism in center field has saved several runs.
- Max Muncy: A versatile player who can switch positions as needed.
Metrics That Matter
Understanding key metrics can provide deeper insight into the Dodgers’ performance. Here are some essential statistics that illustrate their dominance:
| Metric | Value | Significance |
|---|---|---|
| Team Batting Average | .263 | High contact rate leading to consistent scoring |
| Team ERA | 3.45 | Top 5 in MLB, showcasing pitching prowess |
| Defensive Runs Saved | 75 | Ranked among the best, minimizing opponent scoring |
Case Studies: Key Games of the Season
Examining pivotal games can provide insight into how the Dodgers secured their spot in the World Series. Here are two key matchups that exemplified their resilience:
Game 5 of the NLDS: A Test of Will
In a decisive Game 5 against the Atlanta Braves, the Dodgers exhibited their fighting spirit. Despite trailing early, they rallied back with a combination of clutch hitting and stellar pitching from Kershaw, ultimately winning the game 6-5. This game not only showcased their talent but also solidified their confidence moving forward.
Game 7 of the NLCS: The Final Push
A nail-biting Game 7 against the Milwaukee Brewers saw the Dodgers rely on their bullpen to pull through. Key performances from Gonsolin and a game-winning hit from Betts sealed their fate, thrusting them into the World Series in a high-pressure situation.
Benefits of Following the Dodgers’ Journey
For fans and aspiring players alike, there are valuable lessons to be learned from the Dodgers’ journey:
- Adaptability: The ability to adjust strategies in the face of adversity is crucial for success in any field.
- Teamwork: Collaboration and support among team members foster a winning environment.
- Continuous Improvement: Investing in talent development pays off, as seen with the Dodgers’ successful farm system.
First-Hand Experience: Fans Share Their Excitement
As the Dodgers advanced to the World Series, fans expressed their excitement and support. Here are a few testimonials:
“Watching the Dodgers play this season has been an emotional rollercoaster, but their resilience has made it all worth it!” – Jane D.
“I never lost faith in the Dodgers, even when they faced injuries. Their team spirit is inspiring!” – Mark T.
The path to the World Series is fraught with challenges, but the Dodgers have demonstrated that with the right blend of talent, teamwork, and tenacity, anything is possible. As the team steps onto the grand stage of the World Series, fans eagerly await to see if they can turn their smoke and mirrors act into a championship reality.
